EMPOWER - Module 3 - Building Search Strategies

Finding sources usually requires...

• Multiple search attempts
• Looking in multiple places
• Considering possible sub-sections of the topic/research question

Before searching, you must brainstorm several Keywords to save you time and frustration!

Keyword Brainstorming Methods:

• List
• Outline
• Mind Map
• Group Discussion

Types of Keywords:

• Narrower or Broader Terms
  • i.e. Officers  ⇒  Navy  ⇒   Military
• Synonyms
  • i.e. Garbage; Trash; Waste; Detritus
• Spelling Variations
  • i.e. Healthcare vs. Health Care; Organize vs. Organise
• Slang
  • i.e. Earworm; Glamping; Binge-watching
• Regional Words
  • i.e. soda vs. pop vs. coke vs. tonic
• Jargon
  • Corporate-speak; diseases named after people (i.e. Turner Syndrome)
• How information is presented in different kinds of sources
  • Magazine: Little Blue Penguin vs. Journal: Eudyptula minor

Keywords. Authored by: Sukhjinder License: CC0