When we refer to a database in libraries, we are referring to online resources that index journals, journal articles, conference proceedings, book chapters, and other content. These databases make it easy for users to search across multiple content types and content providers without having to search each provider individually.
All of our databases offer multiple options for searching and refining search results, and many of the databases offer access to full-text articles.
How can databases improve your research? Check out the video below!
(Video from Yavapai College Library)
With your research topic in hand you must formulate a search strategy. The first step in this process is to:
But it may also be helpful to
It is highly unlikely that your first search will result in a perfect result set. Refining your search can return more relevant results, providing you with higher quality resources for your research. Use the tips below to refine your searches:
The University of Pittsburgh Library System (ULS) subscribes to a large number of databases to help you find research materials. Use the links below to find the types of databases for which you are looking.
The type of database you choose for your research will depend on
In many cases, preliminary research to help formulate your research questions and solidify your research project can be best conducted in a general purpose database. On the other hand, if you have a solid research theme, working in a subject specific database often results in more in-depth content.
Use the links below to see some examples of general purpose and subject specific databases. These databases are listed from most general to most specific for Engineering projects.