How to develop a search strategy

Finding the focus

To find relevant information you need to focus on what is being asked. Think about what you need to find by asking questions about your topic.

To find out about How has Australia's relationship with England changed since 1945? some relevant questions might be:

• What element(s) of the relationship? Political, popular opinion, military, legal, trade?
• What was the state of the relationship in 1945? What is it now?
• Has the relationship been affected by other countries?

You may need to consult some background material, such as encyclopedias or general works to help you. Your answers may depend on the context in which the question is being asked (e.g. are you studying History or Law?).