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ETHS-1100 - Ethical Theory Presentation

Searching in a library database is very different than searching in Google. The database uses certain language and codes to understand exactly what you're looking for.

Use the tips on this page to turn your research topic into a research strategy.

Library Research - Tips (video)

Search Strategies for Library Databases

On this page:

Remember, research is not linear. You may not find everything you need after one search. If you do not find what you're looking for, try adapting or changing your search terms.

Search Strategy 1: Break a topic into key concepts

You'll need to search by key elements of your topic, for example the name of the Ethical Theory or the name of it's top theorists. 
We recommend using the Advanced Search button on the library homepage. 

Advanced Search button highlighted

Start by searching for the name of your ethical theory.


 

You might need to add on more keywords - brainstorm key concepts from your theory or the names of relevant theorists:

Search Strategy 2: Brainstorm synonyms

The database tries to find articles that contain every search term you use. This means, if an author uses a different keyword than you, their article won't show up in the results list. Therefore, brainstorm synonyms for your keywords. Separate synonyms with OR to tell the database to look for articles with either word.  

The database can help you come up with key words. Start typing in your search terms and then type OR - a dropdown of optional synonyms will come up. Choose the most appropriate words for your topic. 

More Search Strategies

  1. Use quotation marks around a group of words to search the words as a phrase. Example: "Divine Command Theory"
  2. Add an asterisk after the root word to search for the root word plus all possible endings. Example: Canad* = Canada, Canadian, Canadiens.
  3. Use the plus sign below the search box to add additional search fields and further narrow your results.