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Google Scholar

This guide looks at the advantages and disadvantages of using Google Scholar

Don't just use Google Scholar - use 'Find Databases'

To find bibliographic databases in your subject area use FindIt@Bham. Log in using your University username and password and click on Find Databases in the top-right hand corner of the screen. Choose the ‘Search by Subject’ tab and select your subject area from the ‘Category’ drop-down list to see all databases relevant to your area. Click ‘Show info’ to get more information about what the database covers and links to any database guides.

Some of the databases, like Web of Science, are multi-disciplinary (including arts and humanities despite the name), whereas others, like Anthropology Plus, are very subject-specific.

Because the suppliers of these databases charge libraries for access to them they pay great attention to the consistency and quality of the data they contain, and have developed sophisticated search tools to help you extract the most useful information for your research.

To find out which databases you could use check the Subject Guide for your subject or discipline.

Subject guides list at UoB

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