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Welcome! Here you find resources to help you get started in the research process.

Search Tips

Getting Started:

When searching in any search engine, (databases, library catalog, google scholar, etc.) it is best to use keywords rather than typing the full question or topic. For example, if your question is:

"How does Emily Brontë use the motif of the Gothic to explore themes of love, revenge, and the supernatural in Wuthering Heights?"

Remover the filler words from the question and focus on the main concepts. Next, brainstorm synonyms of the key words. You may type words such as these in the search bar:

Gothic, romance, paranormal, subtexts, vengeance 

Advanced Search Tips:

Using Boolean Operators (AND, OR, NOT)

Boolean operators are used to either refine or expand your search. They are placed in between your keywords to yield more specific search results.

Too Few Results
Use: AND 
For example: love AND revenge 
Either/Or Results
Use: OR
For example: love OR revenge
Too Many Results
Use: NOT
For example: love NOT revenge

Visual Brainstorming:

If you prefer to draw when brainstorming, you may want to draw a concept map. You can do this on paper, a white board, or a smart board. For online resources focused on concept mapping, we recommend Canva.