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Basic Semi-formal IVT

Subject Guide

noun phrase

Pronunciation: /ˈsʌbdʒɪkt ɡaɪd/

A curated online or print resource that provides students and researchers with discipline-specific information, including recommended databases, journals, reference sources, and research tips for a particular subject area. Subject guides are typically created and maintained by librarians with subject expertise.

Plain English

A librarian-created guide listing the best resources and search strategies for a particular academic subject.

Etymology & History

Origin languageEnglish and Latin
Rootsubject (Latin subicere) + guide (Germanic)
First recorded use1980s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"The history subject guide helps students find primary sources, historical databases, and peer-reviewed journals for their research papers."

Style guide notes: Use 'subject guide' as standard term; 'subject libguide' refers specifically to guides created in LibGuides software.

Also known as

research guide subject libguide subject pathfinder

Contrasted with

general database undirected search

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Who creates and updates subject guides?

Subject librarians with expertise in specific disciplines create and regularly update guides with current resources.

Where can I find subject guides for my major?

Most university libraries organize guides by subject on their website, often searchable by discipline name.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Relevant for understanding how libraries organize and present discipline-specific resources and user education tools.

Required skill level: Junior

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