Finding Advanced Keywords and Subject Terms
Keywords vs Subject Terms
Keyword searching is using keywords or phrases derived from a concept or research question. Any terms can be used, and there are no predefined headings.
Subject headings, also known as subject descriptors or subject terms, are used within databases to organize content. Database content that is related to a particular subject heading can be searched by these predefined terms.
It is often difficult to know the exact terms a given database will use for the subject headings. For example, in the education database ERIC Links to an external site., any content related to student retention should be listed under the subject heading “school holding power.”
| Keywords | Subject Terms |
|---|---|
| Keywords are formed by using natural language words, phrases, and related terms that describe your topic. | Subject Terms use pre-defined vocabulary to describe the content of each item (book, journal article) in a database. |
| Keywords are a great way to start your search to see what research is available. | When using Subject Terms users need to know the exact vocabulary term the database prefers. |
| A database can look for keywords anywhere within an item, including the title, abstract, and full text. | Databases only look for Subject Terms in an item's subject heading or descriptor field. This is where the most relevant words about the content of an item appear. |
Browsing Subject Terms
The best place to browse for Subject Terms is using a Database Thesaurus. This special tool will help you look up the controlled vocabulary of that database which lets you know what terms the database prefers.
Using Existing Literature to Identify Keywords and Subject Terms
Once you have found an article relevant to your research topic, many databases have a section that allows you to examine their subject terms. You can use these assigned terms to conduct new searches within the database.
- Start with a keyword search, using words/phrases that describe your topic.
- Browse the results; choose 2 or 3 that are relevant.
- Look at the Subject or Descriptor field and note the terms used.
- Redo your search using those terms.
- Your results may now be more precise than your initial keyword search.
Need Additional Help?
If you need additional help, librarians at Miramar College can help you with:
- Finding the best sources
- Searching tips and tricks
- Navigating databases
- Citing sources
- And much more!
We’re available to help via chat & email. or you can schedule an appointment with a librarian. (in-person or Zoom). Walk-ins are also welcome in L-200 at the Circulation Desk or Reference Desk on the 2nd floor.