Once you have focused your topic, you will want to explore subject specific databases. To find these, go to the Research Guides, select your subject areas, then click on the Find Articles tab.
If you are just beginning your research, try these databases:
SEARCH TIPS
Example: Why did the United States get involved in the Vietnam War
(the key words are in bold)
Example: United States and Vietnam War
USING BOOLEAN
After you have identified your key words, use AND/OR to combine terms:
AND – use for both Example: eating disorders and ADHD
OR – use for either Example: eating disorders or anorexia nervosa or bulimia
Nesting: when using both OR and AND in a search, parentheses must surround the OR segment
Truncation – * or $ depending on database Example: teen* finds teen, teens, teenagers
EXAMPLE: (eating disorders or anorexia nervosa or bulimia) and (teen* or adolescen*)
When | For information on a focused topic |
Why |
News & Magazines: current info Journals: Original research, references |
Where |
Search topics in Databases |
From a database
In most databases, if the full text of the article is not available, you will see a Check for Full Text button.
This will search for the article and:
a) take you to the article - look for PDF full text,
b) take you to the catalog - click on the link next to Content Available
c) link you to Interlibrary Loan so you can request a copy of the article. Click on Articles (1-2 days).
Option 1: If you find an article on the web, use the Proxy Bookmarklet to see if UW has access. The bookmarklet lets you log into the proxy without having to browse from the Libraries website.
Option 2: Go to the Ejournals page. Click on the Articles tab to search for your article.
Option 3: If 1 & 2 don't work, email UW Tacoma Library Reference (tacref@uw.edu) or phone (253-692-4442) for assistance