LibGuides: Biography: Search Tips for Biographies

Search Tips

Try putting quotes around the name. "John Smith" will find the name "John" right next to the name "Smith." Without the quotes, you might find a web page or article that mentions John Adams and Shawna Smith but not John Smith.
Some sources will include the names inverted (last name first): search for "Smith, John" as well as "John Smith."
Add more key words to identify the person, especially if they have a common name. For example, add their occupation or other words that describe why the person is known, or include a country or other location.
Try a more specialized resource, such as a library database or a book with a focus on a subject that might include the person. In a book, check the index in the back for the person's name.