Using Academic Search Premier: A Beginner’s Guide to Library ResearchThis presentation was developed for WRIT 095: Developmental Writing atMontana State University Great Fallsby Jana Carter during the Fall 2009 semester

Game planGet your ideas on paper before you begin looking for information. Write an outline, make a mind map, or take extensive notes before you hit the library!

What is an index or database?Like any list of contacts, but searchable by any criteria you can think of (keyword, author, title, subject, date, publication, to name a few)The Library’s databases provide full-text articles from publications from all over the worldThe Library’s databases also provide a pre-screened content – you don’t have to worry about whether it’s true, only about whether it’s relevant to your paper

What it looks like

Anatomy of Academic Search PremierSearch boxes. There are three blank fields in which you will enter your search terms.Search Options. There are check boxes and dropdown menus to help you set limiters and expanders.

Search terms and limitersA search term is a word related to your topicLook for the intersection of your search termsBe flexible – look for synonyms, fewer terms, more terms, or use the subject terms that the database suggests if you’re not getting good resultsNarrow the search by setting limiters – set the source type, publication year, or full-text options to modify results

Choosing search termsIn this case, the search terms are too vagueIn this case, the search terms are more specific

Accessing the Indexes & DatabasesFollow these hops to get to Academic Search PremierStart at the Weaver Library’s Indexes & Databases homepage, http://library.msugf.edu/IndexesDatabases.html, then click Academic Search Premier, and click View site.If you’re planning on working at home, stop by the Library so that the staff can set you up with a Proxy account!

Refining search resultsIt’s essential to stay flexible! Look for synonyms, fewer terms, more terms, or use the subject terms that the database suggests if you’re not getting good resultsBrainstorm with a classmate! Talking through your ideas may give you a useful perspective and good ideasAsk for help when you get stuck! Both your instructor and the Library’s staff are old hands – asking is relatively painless