Make a list of search words.

To begin to search successfully you must use a variety of words that relate to your topic 

• Think of the different words and phrases that people might use when they discuss your topic. Start with what you know.
• Consider broader and narrower words, and synonyms or related ideas.
• Consider point of view. In other words, think about how to approach your topic with words that reflect different perspectives and audiences. Researchers may use different language than journalists, and language can serve rhetorical purposes For example: 
  • formerly incarcerated people vs. former offenders (offenders assumes guilt and labels a person)
  • youth or teenagers vs juvenile delinquents (juvenile delinquent is implicitly positioned to see guilt)
• As you search, write down additional key words that you come across in your background research and in the scholarly journals databases. 
• Be sure to try a range of words to find differing points of view and relevant sources.
• You can ask a librarian for help in finding words that are used in your field of research.  

You might be interested in reading this list of preferred terms from the Berkeley Underground Scholars.