1. From subject to search query
When you have decided what your thesis will be about you have to translate that into a search query that a database might understand.
a) Read the information about formulating a search query in the Search- and writer´s guide.
b) Watch the screencast that describes the process with an example.
c) Formulate your own search query! Use the same process as in the above example!
2. Searching for scientific articles
When looking for a scientific article you can choose for example the SLU University Library search system Primo, or an international reference database. Remember that you might also need other kinds of information for you thesis. Books, reports and so on can often be found through for example library catalogues.
a) For information on how to find scientific articles using our library search system Primo, check out the presentation below!
b) For information on reference databases, check out the presentation below!
c) Here you find useful information on how to use the reference database Web of Science. Tutorials are also available for the reference database Scopus.
d) Try using your search query in at least two reference databases! Feel free to take a look at the list of potentially suitable resources we have compiled for you.
3. Collecting references - reference management
Using a reference management software allows you to collect your references (all the information about the publication) and to insert references directly into your Word document as you're writing it! More information about reference management can be found here. If you choose not to use reference management software you can usually save/print/email references from reference databases.
There are several types of reference management software on the market, for example:
- EndNote Web. You have access to EndNote Web as a student at SLU. It is integrated into Web of Knowledge. EndNote also has a desktop version.
- Zotero. Zotero is free and integrated into the web browser Mozilla Firefox. You download it from www.Zotero.org.
a) Optional: watch one of the two video clips below, depending on what reference management software you find most interesting.
EndNote Web:
Zotero:
4. Evaluating your search results & source criticism
When you've made a search it is important that you review your results.
a) Read the information on source criticism in the Search- and writer´s guide.
b) Watch the short presentation about Internet and source criticism. You might want to view it in full screen mode.
5. Cheating, plagiarism and copyright
Plagiarism is a growing concern for universities.
a) Read the information on cheating and plagiarism in the Search- and writer´s guide.
b) What are your rights as a copyright holder? What are you allowed to do with other people's work? Watch the presentation on copyright below! You might want to view it in full screen mode.
6. Making references
a) Read the information on making references in the Search- and writer´s guide. Note the link "exemples of referencing according to the Harvard style" where you can find information on how to refer to different kinds of publications!