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Searching in Social sciences

Helpful hints

Get started with your search using these helpful hints on researching a topic:

1. Understand the task

Read the question carefully to determine what is expected.

Think about the scope of the research – are you writing an essay for your course, or a literature review for your thesis? The length and format of your work will effect how you conduct your research.

2. Understand the topic

Break down your research question to identify the key concepts and limiting words.

Start with simple searches in Library collection or Google Scholar to get a feel for the topic and what information is available.

3. Brainstorm keywords

Identify alternative terms for each of your key concepts to use in your search.

  • Check titles and abstracts of relevant articles for ideas for search terms.
  • Consider synonyms, related terms and spelling variations.
  • Choose appropriate terms that are not too broad or too narrow for your topic.

4. Identify relevant databases to search

Explore Subject guides to find the best databases and resources for your topic.

5. Start your search

Use different combinations of keywords to locate relevant material.

Consider limits such as date published and resource type where appropriate.

6. Evaluate your results

Refine your search based on your results.

Assess resources for relevance and credibility.

7. Document your searches

Create an account within the database to save your search, or copy it into a document.

Use reference management software to save your references.

8. Download full text

Download relevant articles from Library collection or databases.

If you are searching places like Google Scholar, search tools and plugins can connect you to UNSW-subscribed full-text articles.

9. Ask for help

Library support is available no matter what stage you are up to in your research process.