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How do you find academic literature and research data?

Image: Wouter van der Wolk

How do you find academic literature and research data?

Last modified on 19-10-2024 16:15
For research and writing, you need academic literature or data. How do you find the right sources? Learn how to use CataloguePlus, find relevant databases, and get useful tips.
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    Where can you find literature?

    In CataloguePlusExternal link, the Library's search environment, you can find digital and printed academic literature such as booksExternal link, journals, databases, and other resources we provide access to.

    • JournalsExternal link: In this section, you can search for all available journals. You can often search these journals at the article level. Printed journals are usually available for consultation.
    • DatabasesExternal link: You can view an overview of all the databases the Library has access to. Here, you can find specialized databases to search for literature in your field.

    Discover sources through citation databases

    • Scopus and Web of Science are two examples of citation databases to which the Library subscribes. You can search for journal articles and find information on the popularity of both the journals and the articles. These databases provide a good overview of the key journals and articles in many fields.
    • Google Scholar is a useful tool for finding relevant articles. You can easily discover recent literature using the “Cited by” button.

    Note: With your UvAnetID, you can access and read most articles online.

    Image: Marta Adsarias
    CataloguePlus is the Library's search environment. Image: Marta Adsarias

    Handy tips

    By combining these tips, you can further optimize your search for sources and data:

    • Check the literature review or introduction of relevant articles, books, or theses. This provides insight into the databases, literature, and collection methods used, offering useful starting points for your own research.
    • Explore databases in CataloguePlus, including financial and historical data.
    • Many sources and research data are freely accessible via search engines like Google. Use terms such as “data,” “databases,” “statistics,” or “sources” combined with your topic to find relevant websites.
    • Use Boolean search terms: Combine search terms with AND, OR, and NOT to refine your search and obtain more relevant results.
    • Explore field-specific journals: Look for journals specific to your field, as they often contain the latest and most relevant articles.

    Processing literature and research data

    Special citation software can save you time when citing literature and listing sources in your essay, report, or thesis. The Library holds licenses for various citation tools, such as RefWorks and Zotero. The Library also offers workshops on using this software. For more information, visit the Library websiteExternal link.

    Image: Wouter van der Wolk
    Image: Wouter van der Wolk

    Need advice or support?

    You can ask the Library for help and advice. You can also contact the information specialist in your field for personal advice. You can find the information specialist under Support on the page for your field of studyExternal link.

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