Databases can be general or specific

Start with a general database and then try more specific ones.

• general database examples:  Academic Search Premier or Google Scholar - search many subjects at once 
• specific database example:  APA PsycInfo - focuses on a few specific areas

Databases can also focus exclusively on source types

Some databases are great for academic journal articles. Others offer a mix source types like videos, maps, data, music, historic primary sources (e.g. old letters) and more.

Databases and you

• The U of M provides access to hundreds of different databases for your research. When you search a library database, you will see content that is only available to UMN students, and may not be included in Google (or similar) search results. 
• Do NOT pay for PDFs! The Library can get it for you - just use the online request form.

Watch:  What is a library database?