Below are skills some students may find useful when searching databases.
| Skill | Beginner | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Understanding which databases sources appear in Library Search and which do not | X | |
| Understanding the difference between Library Search, database searching, Google, and Google Scholar | X | |
| The benefits of using a specific database | X | |
| The specific functions and features of the database (as well as crossover functions between platforms) | X | |
| Subject headings | X | |
| Searching vs browsing | X | |
| Downloading reports | X | |
| Understanding the hierarchy of vendors vs database names vs journal titles vs articles | X | |
| What content is covered in each database | X | |
| Subject specific databases from A-Z page/subject guides (e.g., groups of health sciences databases, business databases) | X | |
| Open access vs subscription based content | X | |
| Finding guides to help navigate the database interface (e.g., using the help page, finding search operators, etc.) | X |