Performing a subject search in a specific field can mean that you need to make use of a number of different sources, printed as well as electronic, to get the desired result.
Prepare your search
Regardless of which subject field you are searching within, the general instructions for search technique and search strategy that you find in the section Search guide apply. You must always think over and plan your search carefully. There are no short cuts. It does not matter if you are a beginner or an experienced searcher.
Don’t rush
If you want to make a search that covers your topic you must be aware of the fact that you need to allow plenty of time for the search. Performing a good literature search is not done in one coffee break. A good advice is to allow yourself and your search plenty of time. Prepare your search and consider carefully what result you want from the search. Ultimately, it will pay off.
Subject specific sources
Apart from general advice which applies to all literature searches, there are more specific advice and tips depending on which subject you are going to search information about. For each subject there is as a rule one or more subject specific databases, books, encyclopaedias and journals. Books, encyclopaedias and journals exist in print and well as electronically. Most subject fields have their own unique terminology – their own technical language. Being familiar with the terminology that prevails in a certain field is often a prerequisite for achieving a good search result. The amount of sources with relevant material for your work varies depending on what subject you are searching information about.
Anne-Marie Pettersson
2005-06-20
