Developing Keywords - ENGL-C1000 - Koepnick - LibGuides at Merced College

Brainstorming Keywords

The databases simply match the words you enter in the search box. Not all authors use the same language to describe similar topics, so you will need to try a variety of searches to find relevant results.

Create a list of possible words that could appear in a source related to your topic.
Come up with synonyms or related terms.
Stick to using about 2-4 terms at a time.

Selecting and Using Keywords

Keywords Activity

In small groups we will answer the following questions:

Keep a list of keywords and concepts that might help you research your question later in the session

1. What do I already know?

2. What do I need know?

3. Why do I need to know this for my paper?

4. How will I use this information in my paper?

Articles to consider

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Being Labeled an Expert May Contribute to Someone Being Closed-Minded
As the presidential campaign continues, you are sure to hear from experts offering opinions about who's up, who's down, what's going to happen next. And you may sometimes - or often - find yourself asking, what makes you so sure you know what you're talking about?
Learning in Depth: Students as Experts
Nearly everyone who has tried to describe an image of the educated person, from Plato to the present, includes at least two requirements: first, educated people must be widely knowledgeable and, second, they must know something in depth.

Web Search Strategies

Web Search Strategies in Plain English
This is another way to visualize a web search

ENGL-C1000 - Koepnick: Developing Keywords

Brainstorming Keywords

Selecting and Using Keywords

Keywords Activity

Articles to consider

Web Search Strategies