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BIOL 497: Research Proposal

This guide was created in February 2018 for BIOL 497 students. Updated in January 2025.

Search Tips

Sometimes we run into trouble when researching online. One search query yields more results than we could ever begin to sift through, while another might return zero. It's all in the way you search. Check out the tips and tricks below to get the best results when researching.

Searching is Strategic

Research 101: Searching is Strategic, Anna Eisen: https://youtu.be/4CHKYaJkuO0

This video explains the intricate nature of searching for sources for academic research and provides some methods to make your searching more efficient and productive. Covers the benefits of using appropriate databases to start your research, versus using Google. When using these databases, it is important to understand that using various keywords and search phrases will yield different results every time. Take note of what you find while conducting these different searches, as those new keywords and subject terms may help you in your research process. If all else fails, Ask A Librarian!

Tips and Tricks: Phrase Searching

Tips and Tricks: Phrase Searching, NCSU Library: https://youtu.be/6_mQGzRyTg4

Learn how to improve the relevance of your search results with phrase searching.