Narrow the Search
Advanced Composition | Objectives | Get Opinionated
Research Topic Ideas | Revision Checklist | Research Rubric
Once you've selected your general topic, you'll want to narrow the scope of your search. Do this by using Boolean search terms: "Quotation marks" around words you want as an exact phrase match; + or AND for terms you want to appear in the same hit; - or NOT for words you don't want the search to include.
Also, different search engines do different jobs. For a list of links to a number of engines and a description of the jobs they do best, go to Noodle Tools:
http://www.noodletools.com/debbie/literacies/information/5locate/adviceengine.html
Or try "The Library Guy." On this site, you'll find First Search tips, search syntax, search tools and hints, and links to several university citation guides, including both MLA and APA formats:
Advanced Composition | Objectives | Get Opinionated
Research Topic Ideas | Revision Checklist | Research Rubric
Portfolio Guidelines | Mrs. Nussbaum's Home Page