Advanced Search Techniques

1. Start your search by entering keywords for your topic and then add a keyword for the methodology.

Example keywords:

• qualitative
• quantitative
• case study
• interview
• field study
• ethnographic
• experimental
• mixed-methods
• statistic
• correlation

Example search for the keywords fitness, mental health, and qualitative in a database

Example search for the keywords fitness, mental health, and qualitative in  OneSearch

1. Start your search by entering keywords for your topic and then select a specific methodology.

Many databases allow you to search and limit by specific methodologies. Look for a Methodology Filter in the database using the Advanced Search page. 

2. OR, Filter the results by methodology after you see the results from a keyword search.

Tips for using the Methodology filter:

• Search by one methodology at a time. Then, within your same search, change the methodology filter to the next method you want so you get different results.
• Some methodologies are rarely used for certain research topics. You may need to broaden your search to find a study that uses your preferred methodology. 
• Many articles and dissertations include methodology terms in the abstract or title. It's a good idea to look at the methodology section in the full text to be sure the example fits your research needs. 

ProQuest Education & Psychology Combined is a database that allows you to search for a specific type of methodology using the Methodology Filter.

• Broad searches may work better. Since this filter it only available in this Psychology database, you may have to consider what aspects of your topic are related to psychology. Or, you may have to use the other methods described above.