CMST 220 Public Speaking (Denton)

This guide will help you find evidence for an informative speech or a persuasive speech on a selected social issue for Kelsey Denton's CMST &220.

How to Search Using Your Topic Keywords (3:15)

Source: "Research 101: Searching is Strategic" by Anna Eisen, is licensed under a Standard YouTube License.

Learn how to be tenacious and flexible in searching for the best information from a variety of sources.

Search Strategies (Booleans)

Search Tip Basics - Booleans & Strategy

  1. AND / OR / NOT help you broaden or narrow your search results:
  • AND - narrows and focuses your search

    • Ex: "medical care" AND teens - finds information on medical care specific to teens

  • OR - broadens your search for more results

    • Ex: (teens OR youth) searches for both words

  • NOT - removes the word or phrase after the "NOT

    • Ex: Washington "medical care" NOT "Washington DC" - shows me results that DO NOT include Washington DC

  1. Use a variety of search words to find different results.
     
  2. Look for and click on linked Subject Terms or Keywords you find in your results 

Should I use Google or the library for my research? (1:40)

Source: "Should I be using Google or the Library resources for a paper?" by NEIU Libraries, is licensed under a Standard YouTube License.

Learn about how searching library resources is different than searching Google.

Search Smart

Try these skills to improve your searches!

  • Use DIFFERENT TERMS & SYNONYMS-- be creative & explore.
  • LEARN as you search - keep your eyes open for new ideas that you can use for the next search. 
  • Be a DETECTIVE- if you find a good source, dig deeper and explore any links or other suggested resources.
  • Look in MORE THAN ONE PLACE. See the sections of this guide for recommendations.
  • DON'T STOP after the first try - if you can't find what you need, ask a librarian for help!