Under each topic suggestion listed below, there is a simple search and a better search. The "better" search is just an example. There are so many ways to search each topic. Try different words and phrases to figure out what works best for you. Refer back to the Build a Better Search box for more ideas and examples.
It is OK to copy and paste any of the search examples provided on this guide into an internet search engine or the Library's Summon search box. They have been provided to help you get started. All of this is explained in the Research Guidance section.
Each topic below describes how to search keywords correctly for the best results.
Abstinence from alcohol
Simple keyword search: alcohol abstinence
Better search: alcohol AND (abstinence OR abstainers) AND "college students"
Safe drinking strategies
You will need to include the word alcohol as a search engine or database won't know whether you mean alcohol, water, soft drinks, etc.
Simple keyword search: alcohol safe drinking strategies
Better search: alcohol AND (consumption OR drinking) AND (safe OR safety) AND strategies AND college
Quitting a specific tobacco product
Simple keyword search: quit tobacco
Better searches:
Quitting vaping
Simple keyword search: quit vaping
Better search: vaping AND (quit OR cessation)
Avoiding misuse of a specific substance
Replace the word substance with something like: nicotine, alcohol, caffeine, opioid, etc.
Another option is to use the phrase substance abuse.
Better search: ("sleeping pills" OR sedatives OR tranquilizers) AND (misuse OR abuse)
Seeking professional treatment for a substance use disorder
You can also replace the word substance with something like: nicotine, alcohol, opioid, tobacco, etc.
Simple keyword search: substance use treatment
Use the following resources to explore your topic from a global perspective. Compare the U.S. to another country and briefly discuss what you think our country can learn.