Google is a powerful search engine that offers quick and easy web searching. Use the tips and tricks provided in this guide to get the most out of your Google search.
Things to keep in mind:
- Google itself only holds roughly 1-4% of available content. When you search in Google, you are only accessing the top layer of content, including sources like Wikipedia, blogs, news articles, and social media.
- Database content, including academic journals, is available through paid subscriptions, like what is available at McKee Library. These resources allow you to access scholarly content.
- When in doubt, always carefully evaluate web resources, see link below, before using any source in your academic writing.
- Google Scholar offers some options for refining your results. Using library databases is often the best method for locating scholarly sources.
Resources & Links
- Beginning Research on Wikipedia/Google Video (Southern Login Required)How do you begin a research assignment? What are your go-to sources of information? This video will introduce you to the pros and cons of using Google and Wikipedia as tools for gathering information.
- Choosing the Best Web Resources Tutorial (Southern Login Required)The Internet is an integral part of life in the information age—so much knowledge is available at our fingertips. But not all information on the open web is free or trustworthy.
- Evaluate Resources Research GuideThis guide discusses how to carefully evaluate resources for use in academic research.
Google Searches
Perspectives
