How do you compare and contrast different databases and platforms for your library research needs?

2 Choose the right database

When conducting research, it is essential to consider the scope, coverage, search features, and access of the database and platform you are using. Databases are collections of information sources such as articles, books, and reports that are organized by subject, discipline, or format. Platforms are the interfaces that allow you to access and search the databases, such as Google Scholar or ProQuest. You should check the database for its types of sources, comprehensiveness, currency, and relevance to your subject area. Additionally, assess the platform's usability and search options in order to refine and sort results. Finally, consider how you can access the full text of the sources and if there are any restrictions or limitations.

3 Use effective search terms

Once you have chosen the right database and platform for your research question, you need to use effective search terms to find the information you need. Search terms are the words or phrases that you enter in the search box to retrieve relevant results. To make sure your search is effective, use keywords that are specific and relevant to your research question, avoiding general or vague words. Additionally, use synonyms, variations, and related terms to expand your search. Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) can be used to combine your search terms and narrow or broaden the results. Quotation marks can be used to search for exact phrases or expressions and parentheses can be used to group your search terms and control the order of the search. By following these tips, you will be able to find the information you need for your research question.

4 Evaluate your results

When you have retrieved your search results, it is essential to evaluate their quality and relevance. Not all sources are reliable and useful for your research question, so you need to apply criteria such as authority, accuracy, currency, relevance, and scope. Consider the credentials of the author or publisher and assess if they are reputable and trustworthy. Verify if the information is correct and verifiable with evidence and references. Determine if the source is up to date and timely. Also, assess if the information is relevant to your research question and meets your information needs. Lastly, consider if the source covers the aspects and perspectives that you need in an appropriate level of detail.

5 Cite your sources

The final step in database searching is to cite your sources properly and ethically, which means acknowledging the original authors and sources of the information that you use in your research project. This practice has numerous benefits, such as giving credit and respect to the authors, allowing readers to locate and verify information, demonstrating academic integrity, and supporting arguments with evidence. To cite your sources, you must adhere to a specific citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, and use a consistent and accurate citation system, such as in-text citations, footnotes, endnotes, or references. Citation tools and generators like Zotero, EndNote, or Mendeley can help you create and manage your citations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?