ENGL 217: Harry Potter

Search Strategies to find Articles in Databases

Articles can be found in databases.  Below is a list of databases that will allow you to search for articles on your particular topic.  Not all databases contain the same articles or even the same subjects, so one may be better than another - try searching several of the databases listed below.  

Here are some search tips for when you are in the databases: 

• Start with key terms and their synonyms.  Keep your initial search broad. 
• Use Boolean connectors like AND or OR to connect keywords. Many databases search the words as a phrase otherwise.
  • Link main ideas together with AND (will give you fewer results)
    • Potter AND Hero
    • Potter AND Psychology
  • Link related terms together with OR (or will give you more results) 
    • demon OR witchcraft
• In general, avoid using prepositions like "in," "of," and "on."
• You can truncate words using an * (asterisk) - this will expand your search by retrieving various forms of a word.
  • image*  / symbol* / them* / allegor* / interpret*
• Look at the subject terms or descriptors that are used for articles that appear relevant. Try other searches using those terms. 

Remember: if you need help, just contact me or any of the librarians at the reference desk! 

Databases