In online library catalogs, databases, and lots of other places, you'll often have a choice between keyword searching, subject searching, or a combination of both (often possible with advanced search). What are the pros and cons of each? Here are a few resources to help you make informed choices.

Keyword vs. subject searching (concise introduction from Cal State - Northridge)

The slideshow below is one I use at U of R to review the pros and cons of keyword vs. subject searching and how to combine these methods. Although some screen shots are specific to U of R's library catalog, the general information aboutsearch methods is applicable across most databases and online library catalogs.


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