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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)
Finding ebooks
Learn how to locate ebooks (electronic books) in UC Library Search, the Library's catalog. (1:52)

Full listing of Library Basics DIY tutorials

Research Skills: Introductory

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)
Starting Your Research Series
This tutorial series includes eight sections:Information Privilege & Accessing InformationUnderstanding the Information CycleDeveloping a Research QuestionFinding & Selecting...

Full listing of Research Skills: Introductory DIY tutorials

Research Skills: Advanced

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 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 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

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.
HTML version
Searching in Google LibWizard Tutorial
Google can be easy to use, but do you know how to take advantage of its search capabilities? This tutorial will teach you fundamental Google search strategies for academic and personal use. 
HTML version
Using Zotero to Manage Your Research
Learn how to use Zotero to organize your research, make citations in many styles, annotate, and use the plug-ins to connect Zotero directly to Microsoft Word and GoogleDocs. (50:00)Originally...
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Full listing of Resources & Tools DIY tutorials