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Overview
●Why use articles?
●What are the index databases for?

●What's the difference between scholarly journals and popular magazines?
●Shortcuts
Step 1: Identify the appropriate  database
Start in a general database
Use the Research Guides
Browse the ALADIN databases
Ask A Librarian
Step 2: Search Strategies
●Expand or limit your search

●Use subject headings effectively
Step 3: Find the full text online
Step 4: Find the full text on paper
Step 5: Cite the article
Step 1: Identify the appropriate database
Most index databases are subject specific. In order to find the best articles on your subject, you will need to select the correct database. These resources can help you decide:


Start in a general, multi-disciplinary index database
Two useful databases in which to begin your research are Academic Search Premier and Proquest Research Library Plus . Both of these databases are very broad-based and much material is full text. (Be sure to limit your search to scholarly journals using the check boxes, if necessary.) However, if you need more in-depth coverage, use one of the subject-specific databases. To identify the most appropriate subject-specific index database, see below.


Use the Research Guides
If one exists, use the Research Guide for your specific topic to find the best index databases in that field. Most Research Guides contain a section entitled Finding Articles. See below.


  • List of Research Guides

    Browse the ALADIN databases
    The online databases are organized by subject. Go to the ALADIN homepage (log in, if accessing the page from off-campus) and click on the drop-down list of database subject groupings, then click on a subject. Select a database from the list of those recommended for your subject area. Open it by clicking on the CONNECT button to the left of the database title.




    Ask A Librarian
    Seek advice in person at the Reference & Information Desk on the 1st floor of Gelman Library, telephone, send an e-mail message, or get help online in real time. Details.




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