Use subject headings to your advantage
Whether you search a library catalog, a print index, or the Internet, using a controlled vocabulary of carefully chosen subject headings can help you find what you need faster and more effectively. Remember a few basics:
- Consider the Specific Subject itself.
- Consider Parallel Terms (words that rename your subject).
- Consider Broad Terms (words that are more general in scope).
- Consider Narrow Terms (words that focus on particular aspects of the subject).
- Consider Related Terms or Cross References (the "See" and "See also" prompts that might lead you to other useful references).
ASK IN THE LIBRARY for a Subject Heading Graphic Organizer Template to help you determine and identify subject headings that will work for your particular assignment. (They can be found at the circulation desk.)
Research websites critically
Check for the following:
Accuracy
Is the information reliable? Believable?
Are there accurate links?
Are words spelled correctly? Is proper grammar used?
Are reputable sources cited?
Authority
Is the author listed? The organization?
Is it a legitimate or qualified source?
Is the authority credible?
Objectivity
Is it unbiased?
Is it actual information as opposed to advertisement?
Can the author's point of view withstand testing?
Currency
Is the publication date listed?
Has the website been updated recently?
Do the links work?
Coverage
Are there graphics and statistics as well as text?
Is the coverage in-depth?
Cite your sources using Modern Language Association (MLA) style
ASK IN THE LIBRARY for the newest Bibliographic Information Pages (BIPs) to help you create your citations. (They can be found at the circulation desk.)
FOR SPECIFIC MLA INFORMATION, CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINKS:
 Creating an MLA Works Cited Page
 MLA Works Cited Samples for Books
 MLA Works Cited Samples for Electronic Resources (Websites and Databases)
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