How to get the most out of your information searches for your assignment/project.
Five steps for information seeking
Here are five key steps:
Step 1: Identify the key concepts in the problem you want to investigate
Which words and phrases will be relevant to proceed with?
Clarify your concepts with your teacher or supervisor.
Create an overview of words and phrases.
Step 2: Define your search terms
Get inspiration for keywords: Make use of handbooks, dictionaries, subject lists, subject literature
Make a list of keywords based on your research question
Find all potential synonyms - both in Danish and English!
Step 3: Find relevant sources
Check your subject guide The subject guides on library.au.dk cover the degree programs that are taught at AU. Each subject guide consists of selected resources for the different subject areas
Don't forget that information seeking and literature search for your assignment is an iterative process, which is to say that you adapt and repeat searches as you gain new knowledge and a better insight into the problem
Good advice
Do not avoid your information search tasks, set aside some time for this as a part of the writing process.
Use your lecturer, supervisor or librarian for help and clarification.
Please be targeted and systematic - make a search strategy.
Search in different ways for different purposes: For inspiration, for facts, for documentation or for perspective-setting.
Always remember to state your sources.
Always check your academic rules and regulations for special requirements when handling sources.
Be consistent in your source references: Write them in the same way every time
Take a critical approach to your sources: Always assess the credibility and usefulness