How to Use Databases in Your Assignments
Databases
The LRC also subscribes to a large number of interdiscplinary and subject specific databases.
You can start with the most popular databases (seen on the right side of the screen when browsing the databases page).
Other databases can be found by searching for the database by title, or browsing by program or resource type.
Getting Started with Databases
Databases contain accurate and trustworthy information-- these are subscriptions paid for by the library similar to magazine subscriptions but online to allow greater accessibility.
These resources are available from any computer on any of the TSTC campuses. You can access these resources off campus by signing in with your WebAdvisor username and password.
Search Tips
Search Terms
Use short phrases to search. This will cut out the extra words and make sure the system will search for only the terms you want.
- “electric circuits” NOT “how do electric circuits work?”
Search for broad terms if you have few results. The system searches for key words and may not contain the exact phrase you are searching for.
- “respiratory diseases” NOT “Effects of smoking on the respiratory system”
Abstract
An abstract gives you the basics of what the article is about. If you read the abstract and it doesn’t sound helpful, try another article. It will save you time during your research.
Full-Text & Peer-Reviewed Searching
Make sure these boxes are checked in order to get quality articles.
- Full-Text will ensure that you have access to the entire article.
- Peer-Reviewed means that experts in the field have given merit to the article making it a trustworthy source.