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Quick Tips for Online Library Research: Finding Articles

Search Library Databases

Select the most appropriate database for your topic.

Use Keywords when searching the databases. Getting too many results?

  • Make sure your topic isn't too broad, such as "Health"
  • Try narrowing your topic by:
    • Including a group or population, such as "Children" (A topic on "Health" could become "Childhood Obesity")
    • Including a location, such as California
    • Limit the date range to the last 5 or 10 years to get up-to-date information

What is the Difference Between Scholarly & Popular Articles?

Scholarly vs. Popular Articles
  Scholarly Articles Popular Articles
Examples Journal of Abnormal Psychology, Nursing Ethics, Engineering Studies Time, Newsweek, Vanity Fair
Purpose In-depth and subject specific, often contains original research Provide general information for the public
Author Scholar or subject specialist, provides credentials Journalist, non-subject specialist paid for content
Audience Scholars, researchers and students General public
Language Specialized terminology General vocabulary
Images Few photos & ads More photos & ads
Accountability Peer-reviewed and fact checked by experts in the field Reviewed by editorial staff (not subject specialists)
References Required Generally not listed
Cerritos College Library | 11110 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650 | 562-860-2451 | Reference ext 2425 | Circulation ext 2424