Making the Most of Subject Searching

The advantage of a subject search is that it provides a more focused search. That typically means shorter lists with less junk and more gems.

Its disadvantage is that it's hard to know what Library of Congress Subject Heading term will used be for a topic.

Good subject searching steps include:

1. First, perform a subject search using your own terms.

2. Review the resulting list of subject headings.

3. Select a subject heading that is appropriate for your needs.

4. Select a title(s) that seems relevant.

5. To expand your search, click on any of the related subjects that are listed.

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