Tip: Start by reading background information on a new topic.
Find background information on chelation in the Dictionary of Chemistry. After reading the definition, what terms could you use to find journal articles about chelation?
Dictionary of ChemistryFind background information on chelating agents in the Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical TechnologyMind maps or concept maps can help when you start planning a search. Think about the different components of your topic, and the words or phrases used to express them.
Mindmap Map Mind by BiljaST from Pixabay
You can try using generative artificial intelligence, like ChatGPT, for initial suggestions, but your own brain will do better at generating chemically appropriate synonyms, related terms, word forms, and words using alternative (UK English) spelling.
After you generate a list of potential search terms, decide how to connect the terms to each other. Combine synonyms or related terms using "OR," then bring disparate concepts together using "AND."
Check your assignment instructions for requirements unrelated to the topic of your search.
When in doubt, ask your instructor.
