Skip to Main Content
The HSHSL is a part of the University of Maryland, Baltimore | My UMB The Elm UM Shuttle Blackboard
Library Logo

601 West Lombard Street
Baltimore MD 21201-1512

Reference: 410-706-7996
Circulation: 410-706-7928

Finding Data: Search Strategy for Datasets

Finding and using data and datasets from various sources. Browse datasets by topic.

Getting Started

Searching for data is not like searching for information on a website. The dataset you choose needs to include the variables that you can use to confirm or reject the hypothesis related to your research question. 

To get started, you need to ask yourself:

  • What is my research question and what is my hypothesis?
  • What evidence do I need to support my hypothesis?

Your answers to these questions can be used to describe the right dataset for your purposes. Remember, data may not exist to answer your research question. Be flexible with your research question and hypothesis and adjust as needed.

Searching for Data Workflow

1.  Define Search Parameters

  • Determine the variables, data types, and unit of analysis (hospital data, aggregate data, patient level data, etc.) that are essential for your research question.
  • Consider the frequency of the data collection, geographic region, population demographics, time period (a single point in time vs. changes over time), and the format of the dataset.

2.  Keywords and Synonyms

  • Break down your research question to determine keywords and define relevant synonyms.
  • Just as you search the literature, it's important to include synonyms as a means to find the most relevant sources.

3.  Who Collected the Data

  • Think about who may have collected the data you need and decide where you want to start searching.

4.  Begin Searching

  • Use the information you've compiled to start searching relevant data repositories and organization websites.
  • You may need to use a site like re3data to find possible repositories to search. Also consider what organizations may collect the data you're looking for. (For example: the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.N., Pew Research)
  • Use a database like PubMed to search existing publications that have associated data available. (use the "Associated Data" filter to narrow your search results) 

5.  Review Documentation

  • Review the data codebook to determine if the variables meet your research needs.

6.  Evaluate the data

  • Evaluate the source, quality, and relevance of the data. See the Evaluating Datasets and Data Sources tab for tips.
  • Remember to consider any restrictions or data use agreements that may be applicable.

Searching for data workflow: 1. Define Search Parameters 2. Keywords and Synonyms 3. Who Collected the Data 4. Begin Searching 5. Review Documentation 6. Evaluate the data