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Introduction to Research Skills: Form a Search Strategy

Keywords Worksheet

Tips for Identifying Keywords

Tips for Identifying Keywords

Think of Broader and Narrower Terms

When developing a keywords list, you have to think about what term or short phrasing that an author could potentially use to refer to a topic or concept. To help with this, think of broader and narrower terms related to the concepts in your research question. Remember, related keywords don't have to mean exactly the same thing, but they are similar enough to the original keyword that they could enrich your research.

Use a Thesaurus

Thesauri can be helpful tools when you are struggling to think of synonyms for a term.

Mix and Match Keyword Combinations

Try different combinations of keywords and keyword phrases. Write down the keywords that find the results most relevant to your research question.

Skim Abstract and Subject Headings

If your initial keyword searches are coming up with a handful of results that you like, skim the article abstract and the subject terms for ideas on potential keywords that you can add to your search.

Developing Keywords Example

Keywords Example

 

Research Question: How does involvement in Greek organizations impact the academic success of university students?

 

Table 1. Related Terms Word Bank
Greek organizations academic success university student
extracurricular activities academic achievement college student
sororities graduation rates student
fraternities student retention college freshmen
social groups grades  

 

Black and white photograph from the CMU Archives of two male students standing in the stacks and reading a book.

This photograph of two male students reading books in the stacks is part of the CMU Archives and Special Collections JSTOR Digital Collection.

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