# 2. Search

![Search literature](2-search.png)

Once you have selected a topic and an information search question and have done an initial exploration of the academic literature of your field, it is time to start searching for sources you want to use in your project. A good search strategy helps you to find quality sources that are relevant for your project. In this chapter we discuss step-by-step how to set up such a strategy.

```{admonition} About Source Types
:class: note

This workflow works best for finding academic sources, but you could also apply the steps when looking for other sources like news articles, magazines, or policy documents.
```

Common activities during this phase of your information journey include:

- [2a. Select Academic Databases](2a-select-database.md) - Know different types of academic databases and where to find them
- [2b. Create a Keyword Search](2b-create-keyword-search.md) - Set up a keyword search strategy
- [2c. Check and Refine Your Keyword Search](2c-check-refine-keyword-search.md) - Check and improve an initial keyword search strategy
- [2d. Additional Search Methods](2d-additional-search-methods.md) - Use additional strategies to find literature
- [2e. Keeping Track of Your Search](2e-document-search.md) - Use documentation and search alerts to update your search during your project

## Search Template
You can use the [Search Template](2-template-search.docx) to help you get started with this skill and to document your strategies and findings.