Beowulf: Getting Started

Before you start your researching here are some tips to remember: 

• If your search terms are not returning relatable content, you need to switch the keywords or phrases you are using. 
• Use Boolean Operators to narrow or broaden your searches both in databases and in search engines (i.e. Google).
• Do not settle for the first three results! Look through and read your other returns.  
• Always evaluate any resources you find online through search engines like Google. Use the CRAAP Test to evaluate. 
• Keep your searches clear, simple and organized. Less is more in most cases. 
• The research process takes a lot of time and patience. If you are struggling please ask a librarian for help! 

Boolean Operators connects words together in your search that either help broaden or narrow your search. The three main boolean operators are AND, OR, and NOT. See below how each operator works. 

AND

• Narrows your results 
• Tells the database that all of your search terms are required to be in the results
• Example: Beowulf AND Queens AND Agency | Beowulf AND Translations
• Many databases will already default boolean operators chosen when you do a search but you are able to change them.
• When you use Google the search engine automatically puts AND between your search terms.

OR

• Broadens your results 
• Tells the database that ANY of the search terns in the phrase can be returned in the results. 
• Example: Beowulf OR Queens OR Agency

NOT

• Narrows your results
• Tells the database to exclude results with a specific key word or phrase
• Example: Grendel's Mother NOT Grendel

From the Database Search Tips Libguide from MIT. Click here to access their guide.  

**If you are a New Hampshire or Maine resident and have trouble accessing the databases off campus please contact Ms. Hammond for assistance. 

From the Meriam Library at California State University, Chico

Evaluating websites 

CURRENCY

When was the page written or updated?

Is the information current enough for your topic?

RELEVANCE

Does this information relate to your research topic? Who is the intended audience? 

Is the information at an appropriate level? 

AUTHORITY

Who wrote the page?

Is there evidence that the author  or organization is an expert in the field?

ACCURACY

Does the webpage provide evidence? Are there spelling or grammar mistakes? Has the information been edited or reviewed? 

PURPOSE AND POINT OF VIEW

Why was the page put on the web? What is the domain extension? Based on the writing and vocabulary, who is the intended audience?