It is often helpful in framing research to formulate a specific question for guidance on how and where you look for information. Take a moment to think about what you want to find out.
Examples:
How do NFL fans interact with gender?
How does social media use affect teens?
After you have framed a research question, take a moment to brainstorm WHO might be trying to answer your question. I guarantee that it won't just be academics talking about it, but a whole host of other actors.
Examples:
Who is talking about how NFL fans interact with gender?
Now that you have thought about WHO is talking about your topic, take a moment to think about the types of sources these actors may be creating to disseminate their knowledge, and where you might find these sources.
Examples:
Where are they talking about how NFL fans interact with gender?
Start to brainstorm keywords you might incorporate into your search queries. What kinds of terms might different sources use to discuss the same topic? Try to think of synonyms and word variations that will include more resources.
Examples:
NFL, United States, sports fans, NFL fans, fandom, gender, gender politics, Taylor Swift, Taylor Swift Effect
Tip:
You can also think of words that might pop up in your results that would not be helpful, like UK football.