Search tips

Choosing keywords (2:59)

From Kreitzberg Library at Norwich University. Closed captioning and transcript available.

Just a few to get you started - whether you're searching the library's catalog or many of our individual databases:

Search phrases - Placing "quotes" around search words that go together in a certain order searches them together as a phrase.
- Example: "driverless cars"
Go from general to specific - It often helps to start simple.
- Review what you find to clarify your topic and pick up more keywords.
  - Example: "driverless cars" and accidents
Use different terminology - Alternative phrases or synonyms may enhance your results.
- Example: "autonomous cars" and crashes
Broaden your search - Broader terms may bring up more results.
- Examples: "robotic cars" and safety
Narrow your search - Limit or filter to make results more precise.
- Example: "robotic cars" and safety - filtered by Subject/Topic: Google Self-driving Car

Save them - Many library search tools provide ways to save results or email them to yourself.
- If you email to yourself, you may be able to add a subject line or notes to remind you why you picked that item.
Use citation help - Many library search tools provide example citations in APA, MLA, and other popular formats. HCC Libraries HCC Libraries Citation Guide will also help.

Some databases include options for translation, audio of the article, and more.