These sources may also include bibliographies that will lead you to additional information on your topic. Here is how to use these general works. Choose a topic of interest. Select key words that will help you identify relevant information. Broaden or narrow your topic to make it more manageable.
Periodical indexes come in a variety of subject areas.
Select the index most appropriate for your topic. In larger libraries you can find a Reference Librarian at the Information or Reference Desk. Here is the basic process in nine steps. Selecting a topic is the most important component of a successful search. State your topic in the form of a question, a phrase, or the title of an article or book on the subject.