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InfoSkills1: Defining Your Topic

Identifying the keywords

Identifying the keywords in a question helps you understand what the assignment is about and what you have to do.

Consider this sample assignment question.

Handwashing has been shown to dramatically reduce the spread of viruses. Summarise the role handwashing plays in public health and discuss appropriate methods for use in a handwashing regime in one of the following industries: hospitality, child care or patient care.

  • Can you identify the task words?
  • What about the content words?
  • Are there any limits placed on what you should search for?
  • Is any information there to provide extra context?

Try to find the answers yourself, and then look at the box below. Each aspect is discussed on a different tab.

Test your skills

Toolkit Home | Defining Your Topic | Searching for Resources | Evaluating Resources | Referencing

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