Biology

Useful links

This page will help you get more out of your Library resources for your assignments, projects and dissertations in Biology

Reading Lists

Independent Research - getting started

How to identify different sources of information and links to useful books and ebooks.

Creating a search strategy

Independent Research - beyond the basics

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• Developing advanced search strategies

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To search databases systematically you must first consider the vocabulary you are using and how you combine your search terms. This Applying a search strategy library guide will help you in this process, or if you prefer to use mind mapping techniques this Choosing keywords guide may also help you.

Having decided upon your search terms you will need to use the advanced search screens of Discovery or your preferred databases to conduct your search. In some cases you may wish to use the search history function to develop a systematic search strategy. Advanced search strategies require you to utilize Boolean operators. The following video demonstrates how to use the advanced search option.

The University Library also provides access to a large range of resources to help you to develop your research skills. This includes the Sage Research Methods package.

• Sage Research Methods

Access books and videos about quantitative and qualitative research methods and many more social science research topics. Use the Tools drop-down at the top centre of the screen to access a handy Project Planner which is full of FAQs about what you need to consider at each stage in a project/dissertation. Tools also contains a Methods Map which is ideal for quickly finding details about a particular research method.