The first step on the research journey is to look plan your search. Just like you (are supposed to) write an outline before writing your paper, you should take 1-2 minutes to fill out a PICO(T) chart.

About a PICO(T) Searching Strategy

When you are ready to research a topic, you can use a PICO(T) searching strategy. This is a strategy that will help you find the best evidence about your topic, using our library's databases.

Watch both of these videos to learn how to search for articles—whether it's articles about the benefits of a BSN degree, or finding the best evidence

Watch Video: "Create a PICO(T) Search Strategy to Find Articles in a Database"

You can watch this video to learn about how to create a search strategy that will help you find the best evidence for your topic.

Try It! Use a PICO(T) Search Strategy to Find Articles

First, create search terms you can use for your final paper using the steps from the "Use a PICOT Search Strategy" video. You can use the PICO(T) Search Strategy Table Worksheet:

You will be looking for articles that support your responses to Case #1 in your textbook (on page 252). If you haven't read the case, stop and go read through the case. Then, come back here and fill out a PICO(T) chart. 

Hint: This chart will not have a comparison or a timeframe. Here is an example chart:

Hint 2: If you do not have an intervention, you can use keywords like intervention or treatment or therapy or program or strategy or best practices to help uncover what some options might be.

Move on to the next step in your research journey—4. Search for Sources