How do I choose the search tools I need?


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	Understanding Research
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Understanding Research

Research process
Select a topic
Refine a topic
Identify objectives Choose approach
Explore a topic
Plan a search
Evaluate info

Finding Books

Finding Articles

How Do I Choose the Search Tools I Need?

Once you have identified the types of resources you need and made a list of your keywords, then you need to decide which search tools you will use.

Choose your tools based on the resources you desire. The search tools you select will help you identify which resources are available and where the resources can be located.

For These Resources:	Your Best Search Tools to Use:
BOOKS, AUDIOVISUAL ITEMS	ODU Library Catalog OhioLINK Library Catalog
REFERENCE BOOKS: Encyclopedias, Dictionaries, Bibliographies	ODU Library Catalog ODU Library Quick Reference page
ARTICLES: Newspaper articles, Journal articles, Magazine articles	ODU Library Research Databases
ONLINE REFERENCE: Online encyclopedias, dictionaries, statistics, etc.	ODU Library Quick Reference page
WEB SITES	ODU Library Quick Reference page ODU Library Internet Search page

All of the online search tools can be accessed from the library's home page.

Survivor Tip: In an unfamiliar city, you look to a map to determine where things are. Look to the ODU library home page to find your way to all of the information sources and research tools you will need. If a map isn't sufficient, check with a guide: consult with a reference librarian for assistance.

(12) Do You Know How?

Which type of search tools should you consult to help you search for books?
A. Internet search engines
B. Library catalogs

Which type of search tools should you consult to help you search for newspaper articles?
A. Internet search engines
B. Library databases

Read correct answers

Next: How Do I Evaluate the Information I Find?