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PSYC 3401: Experimental Psychology

Identify Keywords

Identify Keywords

Identify keywords that relate to your topic to assist you when you are searching for resources. Often different words can describe the same concepts and as a researcher, you can never be sure which keywords will bring back the information you are looking for.  

Brainstorm related terms, broader terms and narrower terms related to your topic.  

chart outlining keywords. full text is available in document below.


Keyword Generators

Narrow your topic

Topic too big?  Below are some hints for narrowing your topic:

  • Population group: Narrow by age, race, sex, occupation, etc.  
  • Geography: Narrow by geographical location.  
  • Time period: Narrow time period.  
  • Discipline: Narrow by looking through a specific discipline, for example: How does insomnia affect memory? (Psychology) OR What prescription drugs can assist patients with insomnia and how do they work? (Pharmacy)