You can search most databases the same way you search a library catalog, by author (last name first), title (journal or article), or, more commonly, by keyword or subject. A keyword search is a broader search; you can type in any word or phrase. A subject search uses controlled vocabulary. In databases, subject headings are often referred to as descriptors or index terms.
Many databases allow you the option of searching for peer reviewed or scholarly articles. If you wish to do so, mark the box that specifies peer reviewed or scholarly journals.
Peer reviewed articles generally communicate original research or the results of a study; they are characterized by an abstract, a list of references and/or footnotes, and are generally over five pages in length.
