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DIY Tutorials

Watch these videos at your own pace to learn more about library topics, research skills, and resources.

Library Basics

Connecting to Library Resources: The Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Discover why the Virtual Private Network (VPN) is important for your library research and where you can locate VPN download information.
Using UC Library Search
Learn how to navigate UC Library Search, the Library's new catalog for locating books, eBooks, articles, newspapers and more. (6:17)
Library Orientation Video
Welcome aboard! Discover how the UC Merced Library supports your academic success by joining us for this unexpected tour of the library.  Prepare for both likely and unlikely events as you begin...

Full listing of Library Basics DIY tutorials

Research Skills: Introductory

Starting Your Research Series
This tutorial series includes seven sections:Accessing InformationUnderstanding the Information CycleDeveloping a Research QuestionFinding & Selecting DatabasesUsing Keywords & Search...
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Find Full-Text Through "Get it at UC"
Discover how to use the Get It at UC button to access the full-text of articles or books whether immediately or through Interlibrary Loan (ILL). (2:59)
Finding Databases
Discover how to find databases for your research using UC Merced Library's A-Z Databases listing. (1:20)

Full listing of Research Skills: Introductory DIY tutorials

Research Skills: Advanced

Using Citations Trails to Find MORE Resources
Use an article's citations trails to find more information related to your research. Look for citation trails in Web of Science, Google Scholar, and UC Library Search.
Using Credo Reference
Credo Reference is a collection of searchable online reference books including specialized encyclopedias.  This is an excellent resource for readable, background information.  This tutorial...
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Using CREDO Reference to Locate Background Information for a Disciplinary Field
Learn how CREDO Reference can help you locate important background information on a variety of topics. (3:11)

Full listing of Research Skills: Advanced DIY tutorials

Resources & Tools

Using Opposing Viewpoints
Opposing Viewpoints will help you find scholarly and popular sources about current events. Opposing Viewpoints provides multiple opinions on a variety of topics. Videos, images, and other media are...
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Finding Empirical Studies in PsycINFO
PsycINFO is a psychology database that you can use to find empirical articles (articles that report on original research).
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Academic Search Complete
Academic Search Complete is a great database to use as you start your research. Learn how you can use it to access a wide range of materials.
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Full listing of Resources & Tools DIY tutorials