How comprehensive is google scholar?

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SUMMARY

Google Scholar is not a comprehensive source for academic articles, as it lacks access to many subscription-based databases. Professors recommend utilizing institutional library resources, which often provide access to a wider range of journals and citation counts that Google Scholar cannot offer. University libraries typically aggregate multiple databases, making them a superior option for academic research. Relying solely on Google Scholar may lead to incomplete research outcomes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of academic research methodologies
  • Familiarity with Google Scholar and its limitations
  • Knowledge of institutional library resources
  • Basic skills in navigating online academic databases
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore your university's library database access options
  • Learn how to use Web of Science for citation tracking
  • Investigate alternative academic search engines like Scopus
  • Research methods for evaluating the credibility of academic sources
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Students, researchers, and academics seeking to enhance their literature review process and improve citation tracking through comprehensive academic resources.

Simfish
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A few professors have tried to show me how to look up articles using the traditional sources (such as web of science). But yet, I've grown up on google and I've grown so accustomed to believing that Google has everything, even though it probably doesn't.

Are there a lot of articles that don't end up getting on there?

Is there a better way to find the citation count for a particular author?
 
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Google doesn't get free access to every publication database. Search the online academic databases that your school probably pays a yearly subscription for their students to access.
 
Simfish said:
Is there a better way to find the citation count for a particular author?

You might try what your professors are showing you.
 
My university library provides a search over various journal databases with access to paid services that google won't provide you.

I'm sure your uni does something similar and that is 10x better than google.
 

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