Combining Search Terms
Different authors use different words to describe similar concepts. When searching for information, it is best to use 2-3 concept keywords instead of your entire topic question or a sentence. The connecting words ("operators") used in computer searching are AND, OR, and NOT
Research Question : "Does fracking cause water pollution?"
- First underline the keywords
- Then begin generating synonyms and related words, from your background research, to help you develop a search strategy
fracking |
water |
pollution |
hydraulic fracturing |
underground water |
contamination |
drilling for natural gas |
aquifers |
toxins |
natural gas wells |
wells |
carcinogens |
directional drilling |
domestic water supply |
flammable water |
- Use these terms when searching or use them to create a search phrase for a search box (even works with Google searching):
(fracking OR directional drilling) AND (aquifers OR wells OR water supply) AND (pollution OR toxins OR carcinogens)
Research Question : "What factors influence identity in multiracial adolescents?"
identity |
mutiracial |
adolescents |
self-concept |
biracial |
teen* |
character |
mixed race |
youth |
(multiracial OR biracial) AND (identity OR self-concept) AND (adolescen* OR teen*)