I was pleased to learn from The Curious Researcher the proper ways to search for relevant information on a topic online and in library databases. I had no idea as to how much using proper searching techniques could narrow down potential sources - indeed, using keywords, connector words, and Library of Congress Subject Headings can narrow down your search results as much as six-thousand percent! I believe that the resources of the Boise State Library combined with what I find using search tools such as Ebsco databases and Google Advanced Search will yield sufficient information for my research essay, provided I use the research techniques described in The Curious Researcher.
Of course, panning for gold made hundreds of men rich during the Gold Rush. In the same way, simply searching Google with the name of a topic can yield some excellent sources, and can even help refine your inquiry question. However, when it comes time to dig deep, to really mine for sources, one should know the proper techniques for striking gold.
Panning for gold is an apt metaphor, Luke. At least you're getting your pants wet in the right rivers.
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