Research is a Recursive Process

Conducting a thorough search process is recursive, in that once you run a search, you can return to the beginning and give it another try based on your results. The good news is that you have an unlimited number of opportunities to "get it right"! Too many results? Narrow it down. Too few? Try another angle. Something unexpected capture your attention? Follow the path and see where it takes you.

Take the time to evaluate the results critically. Are the items retrieved relevant and useful for your research? How might you change your search strategy to improve your results? The database systems you use offer the flexibility and power to modify your search as necessary. Make use of the features as your comfort level allows--the best way to learn is often through trial and error!

This guide is intended to take you through the basic steps of developing a search strategy, and it is presented in a linear fashion - but you may find yourself bouncing back and forth.