2.4.2.1 Choose the right database


Identify and obtain information
	2.1 Define your search terms
	2.2 An example search strategy
	2.3 Search strategies
	2.4 Select an appropriate tool
		2.4.1 Library catalogues
		2.4.2 Databases
			Choose the right database
			Tips for searching databases
		2.4.3 Internet
	2.5 Keep up to date


	Glossary

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Identify the relevant database for your faculty/school from the Library Web pages by using the Databases Subject Guide. Reading the description within the full details of the database entry will assist you with choosing the best database. Bookmark the link.

QUT Library subscribes to 500+ databases, so it is important to know the best databases to search for your topic.

Use the Database Subject Guide

From the Library home page, select the link to Databases. From here you have several options for selecting databases. If you know the best database for your subject area, you can either select this from the Quicklinks drop-down menu or type the name of the database in the Find databases search box. If you do not know the best database, use the Databases subject guide.

The subject guide is broken down into major subject areas (by Faculty or general reference area) and then into more specific subject areas. Select your subject area and look through the list of databases provided.

Reading the full details of the database entry, particularly the description entry, will assist you with choosing the best database.

View a demonstration of choosing a database. [1:38 minutes; options; help]

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