The databases listed below work differently than Google or other search tools you're used to. Keep some things in mind as you get started:
- Choose a database(s) thoughtfully - Even the most targeted search terms will not yield relevant results if the database does not contain materials related to your research topic. It's important to spend a little time considering which database(s) is right for you.
- Know how the database(s) you've chosen works - Given that every database has its own particular search functionality, a search that may work in one database may not work in another.
- Choose your search terms carefully - Develop search terms that address the major aspects of your research project. Especially when starting, try broad terms to retrieve as many relevant results as possible. Using synonyms will help you catch more results. You will naturally start to get more specific with your searches as you get more familiar with the topic and the research on it.
While most of the articles in these databases have been peer-reviewed - meaning that they have been vetted by experts in the field - some have not. Many databases, including Tripod, have a "peer-reviewed" filter somewhere, though it is often in a different place in each one. Using this filter will help you identify peer-reviewed sources much more quickly.
Once you have found a relevant article, click the 
button to access the full text. If the library does not own the article you are interested in, you can still access it through an Interlibrary Loan (ILL) request. This request can be made through the "Find it" page, or you can go directly to the ILL Request Form.
