Take time to brainstorm the most important search terms of your research topic or question. Search 1 to 3 keywords or ideas at once, depending on the results you are seeing. If your search is too broad, add a keyword to represent another concept. If it's too narrow, remove a keyword. Use synonyms or related terms to represent the same idea and mix and match as needed. "Written communication" may be too broad, "text messaging" or "texting" or "group chats" may be better if that's your focus. Sample brainstormed terms I would start a search with:
As you search, try different search terms and look at the terms others are using to describe your topic. Some databases will suggest search terms for you- try them out! Maybe they will help.
Use publication date limiters as they apply to your research context. Use source type, language, and other filters as needed. Remove them if they take away too many relevant results from your search.
ProQuest Central is a great starting point for research on written communication styles, how groups communicate, and more! You'll find newspaper articles, magazine articles, eBooks, scholarly articles and more inside ProQuest Central.
If you feel underwhelmed by the results in ProQuest Central, try Summon- the "Search Library Sources" search box.
If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of results in ProQuest Central or Summon, reach out to a librarian for personalized research assistance.
Try Summon ("Search Library Materials") below:
Reach out to a librarian for personalized assistance!
