The document discusses how to focus a research question and develop an initial search strategy. It provides guidance on distinguishing assignment words, narrowing topics, and identifying keywords. An example is analyzed to demonstrate focusing a topic on analyzing dependence on technology for online communication in a social context. Keywords identified for the initial search strategy are online, communication, social, and "social context". The document also discusses brainstorming for additional keywords by considering word variations, abbreviations, acronyms, and synonyms.

1. Focusing your research question LIBR 2100 Introduction to Research in the Information Age

5. Creating an initial search strategy We need to identify keywords to use in our initial search strategy . An analysis of our dependence on technology for online communication in a social context .

15. Brain storming Keywords online communication social cyberspace “world wide web” www internet communicate “electronic mail” email “instant message” chat “ text message” socialise socialize “social relationships” “social aspects”

16. Connecting the concepts with boolean terms online AND communication AND social OR cyberspace communicate socialize “ world wide web” email “ social relationships” www chat “ social aspects” internet instant message friendships