Using Library Databases for Academic Research
Why We Need SJTU Library Database
In the assignments of VY100 or 200 and future academic writing, we need to cite authoritative literature to support our viewpoints. Although most of the online paper databases are not open to the public for free, we can gain unlimited free papers through SJTU library database. Therefore, SJTU library database plays an important role in our academic writing.
What is the SJTU Library Database?
SJTU will pay fees to authoritative databases to subscribe to their literature, and anyone using an SJTU account can access literature for free. The SJTU library database integrates links to all subscription databases and supports indexing the desired database by selecting discipline, language, and literature type.
The website of SJTU library database:
An Example of Using SJTU Library Database
For instance, we need to write an academic article about urbanization in VY100.
Step 1: Access the Database
First, we log in to the SJTU library database website.
Step 2: Choose a Database
Then, we choose the database ‘EBSCO’ (It is a very comprehensive English language database).
Step 3: Navigate to the Platform
Click on ‘Platform Homepage’ to jump to the EBSCO database
Step 4: Search for Content
Click on ‘ASC’ and search keyword ‘urbanization’
A More Efficient Method
We can only search for literature in one database through SJTU library database. What should we do if we want to search for literature across all databases?
It is a wiser choice to use the Google Scholar. By using SJTU WIFI, we can log in without a VPN.
Google Scholar website:
How to Use Google Scholar
Step 1: Search for Keywords
First, search the keyword
Step 2: Access Full Text
Next, if you want to get the full text of the literature you want, click ‘all versions’
Then, Click on the title with [PDF]
Step 3: Download the Article
Finally, you can get the article for free!
How to Obtain Electronic Versions of Books for Free
Academic books are always expensive. However, we can get them for free through the Z-library website.
The Z-library website:
A VPN is needed to log in to Z-library.
A Tool for Generating References
In academic writing, we need to adhere to specific citation formats for literature. It is hard to write it by ourselves. Fortunately, there is a useful website to create these references automatically.
Website:
In this website, you can choose the reference style you want.
By giving the DOI or the journal article, the website will create the citation.