Writing 10-45 (Porter, Fall 2025)

University of West Florida, John C. Pace Library, 3:50

As you watch the video, consider:

1. What do you put in a database’s search box?
2. What is a keyword?
3. How do you go from a research question to a keyword?
4. How many keywords should you use?
5. What are some strategies for developing related keywords?

Identify the key concepts in your topic:

How do hacking and cyberattacks on banks in the United States impact bank customers and banking services?

Brainstorm for related terms:

hacking:

• cyberterrorist
• cyberpunk

banks:

• banking
• financial institutions: insurance, finance, investment firms

customers:

• clients
• services

Try Academic Search Complete > Subject Terms to find subject headings for your topic.

Goal: Generate keywords and synonyms for our own research question.

Instructions:

Open the Google spreadsheet linked here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1kLQPIS6PkMAR9Zc4CT7_Koy-GZU66Hv-j4-32GLl1L8/edit?usp=sharing

1. Add your name to a row in Column A. NOTE: DO NOT USE YOUR PROPER NAME! Use a nickname! 
2. Add your research question or topic to your row next to your name (Column B).
3. Add any keywords and synonyms from your research question to Column C.