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Getting started searching for academic information 

Using StarPlus

StarPlus is a great tool to use for an initial search for information on a topic you are researching. Jump to 03:03 in the video below to see how or watch the whole video if you are new to StarPlus. 

Access StarPlus via the MyServices menu from any university webpage.

Google Scholar

Google Scholar is a  search engine tailored for discovering academic materials. It covers all subjects and disciplines and it can complement your literature search as it retrieves academic materials from a diverse set of sources. However, exactly what is included is not publicly available. For this reason we’d only recommend it as a starting point in your research.

Google Scholar has recently implemented , an AI-powered search feature. This AI tool is experimental and it can make mistakes so you need to exercise caution when using it. 

Undertaking a thorough search for information

When you need to undertake independent research on a topic, it is essential that you use specialist search tools such as academic databases.

Searching for information: going beyond StarPlus workshop

In this workshop you will learn how to use Scopus, an academic database covering all subjects, after considering your information needs and developing a search strategy for them.

Using Scopus

Get started with Scopus with this introductory video guide.

Subject-specific databases

Find the list of recommended subject-specific academic databases in the Library Guide for your subject.

Databases videos

Get support for starting with some of the most useful databases with these introductory video guides.

Finding information for a literature review

A literature review aims to give an overview of the current scholarly understanding of a particular topic, including any competing theories or perspectives.

The second stage of a literature review is about finding the most relevant information for your topic. By working through the second stage of this online tutorial you will learn how to find it.

Dissertations support

This guide brings together a range of useful information and resources to support your dissertation, extended project, or final year project, and develop your research skills and digital capabilities.

In this webinar you will learn:

• How to plan your dissertation
• How to search for and question information
• How to discover and use images and infographics 
• Referencing tips and tricks

Using AI and GenAI for information searching

Many academic databases are starting to add AI and GenAI powered features. These can be useful and enhance your information search, but they can have serious limitations. It is important to be critical of the outputs you get from these features.

Access the online tutorial or attend the workshop below to explore using AI and GenAI to find information. The tutorial and workshop cover:

• The current capabilities and limitations of Generative AI chatbots for finding information.
• How to use Google Gemini to enhance and troubleshoot a search strategy.
• Currently available AI-powered functionality in academic databases.
• The current capabilities and limitations of AI and GenAI assisted scholarly search tools.
• The value of established approaches to finding information and how to access further support on how to use them.

Searching for specialist information sources

Statistical information

During your studies you may need to access statistical information. The resource below will guide you to some reliable sources of this type of information. 

Legal information

During your studies you may need to access legal information. The resource below will guide you through how to find and understand this type of information. 

Newspapers

Newspapers can be a valuable source of information on current and past events, opinion, and cultural and linguistic trends. The Library has a comprehensive collection of contemporary and historical newspapers available.

Government information 

During your studies you may need to access government information. The resources below will guide you through how to find and understand this type of information. 

Maps 

The Library provides access to a variety of map collections including digital and printed maps.

Patents and Standards

During your studies you may need to search for information about patents. Patents protect inventions giving the inventor exclusive rights. They protect the features, workings and appearance of a process or mechanism for a limited period of time.

During your studies, you may need to search for information about standards. Standards are an accepted method or way of working.

They provide the technical details and guidelines to ensure consistency and quality in materials, products, processes and services.

They are useful for current information about new technologies, processes and industrial developments.

Company and business information

You may need to find company and business information for coursework, or to help you if you are applying for jobs.

Knowing more about the structure, history and business of a company before you write an application or attend an interview is likely to improve your commercial awareness and employability.

Next steps

• How to plan an effective information search
• How to question information
• How to write a literature review

Further resources