Starting your research project can feel overwhelming, especially if the topic is lengthy or your topic broad. Here are some tips to get you start on the right path and help you not feel overwhelmed.
Start Researching:
Write out your full research question.
Narrow down the key terms, these you will use to search with.
Use the Key Word pdf to map out your key words with possible synonyms and related terms that overlap with your topic area.
Example:
Review assignments requirements for they type of resources are required.
Example: Professors may require a mixture of academic journals, books, clinical trials or newspapers.
Professors might limit websites or other resource types. It varies per assignment.
Use the Keyword Research Sheet below to guide your process.
Start using your search terms to find relevant resources.
Narrow Your Results:
Narrow to Full Text, or Full Free Text ONLY. Abstracts will not be helpful for your needs.
Narrow by the last 5 years when researching for more current data. Exception: you are looking for historical data.
Narrow by document type such as academic journals, clinical trials, or book reviews depending on your assignment's requirement.
When you find a relevant article use the subject headings, and the resources listed at the end to find similar resources.
Use your key word search to try different search terms to achieve better results.
The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) is the nation’s premier system of health-related telephone surveys that collect state data about U.S. residents regarding their health-related risk behaviors, chronic health conditions, and use of preventive services.
KFF is the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism. Our mission is to serve as a nonpartisan source of information for policymakers, the media, the health policy community, and the public.
The RHIhub is the nation's rural health information source. The website offers a library of resources, coverage of rural issues, state guides, evidence-based toolkits, program models and more.
County Health Rankings & Roadmaps program provides data, evidence, guidance, and examples to build awareness of the multiple factors that influence health and support leaders in growing community power to improve health equity.
