English Composition

After you have developed a research question, the next step is to break that question down into "keywords" -- the most essential elements of the research question. These keywords are what you will use when searching library resources (e.g. OneSearch, databases). It is also important to brainstorm related words and concepts so you have multiple search words to mix and match -- this helps you get more focused search results (and maximize your chances of finding relevant sources).

The Introduction to Keywords video introduces the concept of identifying keywords and synonyms and how the process works using an example. Use the worksheet to work through this process using your research topic. 

• Watch Introduction to Keywords video (2:55 minutes)
• Download the Concept Map worksheet (PDF link)
• Complete worksheet using your research topic