Identify Outcomes or Information you need to answer your questions
(see categories to consider in the 'notes categories' below)
Methodology / Approach: Plan and write a paragraph summarizing your search and source selection method
Identify at least 3 databases / search engines to use
Brainstorm keywords and phrases based on major ideas in your topic and research questions, including synonyms
Try out initial searches in a research literature database
Adjust your search strategy/ies to get results relevant to your topic
Consider comprehensiveness of results
New Publication Alerts: Identify how to set alerts for new publications with your search terms
Search all 3 databases or more
Document your searches: (1) date searched, (2) database/search engine used, (3) keywords or prhases (4) index terms or headings, (5) limits/filters (6) set an alert (7) your notes on the search results
Save your search results in a citation manager
Update your citation manager when your alerts send new results
Make a plan for notes - as you read, identify:
Themes
Theories
Methodologies / Protocols
Outcome measures
'Future Research needed'
Gaps that you notice
Questions you have about the papers you read
Read your selected sources - write notes on outcomes, other key information
Past & Current Research Connections: Check your selected sources' cited references, as well as who cited the sources you're using
Repeat the above as needed
Get assistance outlining, writing, or reviewing your draft literature review