"There are over 120 databases?! How do I pick the best ones?"
The Library groups the databases by topic so pick a category that matches your research question.
Databases can look different from one another because the library buys access to them from different companies. That's why it helps to spend a moment to dissect a database.
Before you enter the database, click on the "about" link next to the database name to learn what subject is covered and the types of materials it contains (i.e. journals, newspapers). Next, go into the database and figure out where to put your search statement, where the help is, and how you print or email results. This is guaranteed to save you time and frustration!
Each database covers different sources so always look at two databases or more. Keep in mind that functionally databases are very similar, so learning to use one database will teach you skills to use all databases--sort of like riding a bike!
In SURF, we will focus on the database Academic Search Elite, which is perfect for three to five-page papers or speeches.
Go to the Databases by Topic page. Click on a topic that most closely relates to the subject of your research. You will see a list of subject specific databases.
