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Literature searching

A guide to finding articles, books and other materials on your subject, and managing the useful references you find.

I still don't understand!

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Literature searching can be a daunting task at the start. But as you gain more experience in finding resources for your assignments, you will find it easier to pick the best search terms and the correct databases to use. 

On this page, we provide you with further guidance on literature searches, including guides provided in the library, and contact details of Study Advice and your Liaison Librarians. 

Book an appointment with your Academic Liaison Librarian

Academic Liaison Team

Every Department has a librarian who will be able to help you analyse your topic, improve your searching skills and suggest the best places to find information and get hold of it. Especially useful if you only have limited access to your project supervisor.

Consult books on doing your dissertation

We hold a variety of books which include detailed guidance on doing your literature search. We've provided some suggestions for you on the left side of the screen. To find other relevant books, search the Enterprise catalogue using the following words:

  • literature searching 
  • database searching 
  • dissertation handbooks

Study Advice

Study Advice Team

The Library's team of study advisers are especially useful for providing guidance on improving your time management, academic writing and research skills.  They provide lots of useful online guides in these areas.