Research Strategies
This exercise will emphasize developing better keywords for your searches and help consolidate ideas to narrow your topic.
Write your topic idea/thesis/argument as a full sentence or as a collection of keywords on the line below. Here are a few examples:
“climate change – inclement weather – insurance costs”
“Controlled burning of forests can help to maintain undergrowth by eliminating dead and invasive plants and helps to prevent catastrophic forest fires.”
“The shift to electric vehicles for the shipping industry will be more significant in reducing pollution than everyday consumers because it removes a larger volume of pollution emitting vehicles from roadways and reduces the likelihood of oil leaks and spilling into the ocean from drilling and from ships.”
Write your own thesis, idea, or a few keywords:
Next select the major theme or topic from your sentence:
In the grid below, write as many ideas that relate to your major theme or topic you can think of. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box or write ideas that you may not use.
Search with multiple keywords along with your major theme or topic to find a variety of results in the databases that will help support your thesis or idea.
Try all your searches in different combinations. Some searches will give you more than others. You may need a whole new set or adjust your topic. Use this space to write out a few more keywords and ideas. What were some keywords recommended from your database searches you hadn’t thought of?
If you found some valuable articles, write down its information below so you can find it again later. If you’re working with this digitally, copy the permalink for quick and easy access.
Article Title:
Keywords used:
Database:
Link:
Article Title:
Keywords used:
Database:
Link:
Article Title:
Keywords used:
Database:
Link:
