How to use CD-ROMs and other databases

What am I looking for?

To search effectively it is important that you consider exactly what question you are trying to answer. This is called developing a search strategy.

Following these steps will help you to simplify your question:

1. What is your topic?
   
   
   
2. What are the key concepts in your question? List them.




3. Are there other ways in which you can express these key concepts?

When you complete these steps you will have a list of search terms to start with. Be willing to add and subtract from your list.

If you do not understand all the terms involved in your topic consult an encyclopedia or dictionary, or ask a fellow student, tutor or a librarian.