How to do Academic Research

Step 4: Beginning Research

Using the Library catalog and databases, search for the terms you found in step 2. Use search filters to help make sure the items you find are useful to you. 

Use the choices in the drop-down box to tell the database how you would like to search. Then type in your topic, title, or author and click "Search."

Here is what a completed search looks like:

Don't forget to filter your search for the best results!

To see what the BPCC Library has:

To see what is in the databases:

To get more information about an article or to read the article:

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All major databases work the same way. The buttons that allow you to filter your search results may be in different places, but the databases will have the same basic features. 

• If you are using MEDLINE, ProQuest, or CINHAL, you will be asked to check a box next to the term you would like to search with. Simply check the box next to the word that best matches what you would like to search for, then click the green button on the RIGHT to begin your search.

Once you have found some resources, look at their record in the database by clicking on the "EBSCO Details Button" to find out more about this resource.

Boolean Operators

Boolean operators are short words which give the database more specific directions on how to search. They will help you get more specific results if you need to narrow down your search or get more results if you need to make your search broader.

Click Here to see a good description of Boolean Operators from Florida Institute of Technology.