Q: How can I search for sources more efficiently?
- First, identify the main concepts in your topic. Example: gender in 18th century literature
- Find different keywords to describe those concepts. Think of words that are likely to be used in the title, subject, author or table of contents. MLAIB has a thesaurus which can help you identify related terms.
- Try a search combining your terms.
- When you find an interesting article or book, look at the subjects to find more search terms.
- When you find a good article or book, look at the bibliography or references that the author cites to find other related sources.
- As you continue your searching, you may need to slightly modify your topic. See NC State’s Finding the Perfect Source video:
https://www.lib.ncsu.edu/tutorials/perfect-source
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help:
Email library@brynmawr.edu, or make an appointment with a librarian. We’re happy to help you find good sources.
