§8.2
		Introduction
		Lecture Notes

Introduction
Tabs are the primary navigation tool in both Westlaw and Lexis. The fact that the tabs are to some extent customizable is a great step forward in making the online research environment more intuitive.

We will make suggestions here, but you need to explore. You need to use these services enough to know what works best for you.

Online research has become a very personalized experience.

Lecture Notes . . .

Simply follow the instructions in the manual to set up your tabs (if you have not done so already). For your convenience, here is a thumbnail version for setting up tabs:

Setting up Westlaw Tabs
In Westlaw, on the top tool bar at the right click on Add a Tab link, then add at least the following tabs:

• Your state's tab
• The Paralegal Tab
• The Law School Tab, or the Law School Classic Tab, or both

The other tabs mentioned in the text book that you might want to consider are:

• The Research Process Tab in Westlaw
• One or two subject matter tabs in Westlaw

You can certainly experiment with other tabs and add more. But eventually you want to have no more than 4 or maybe 5 tabs, most likely. Otherwise your search resources become muddled.

Setting up Lexis Tabs
In Lexis, click on the Search Tab at the top of the page. Click on Add/Edit Subtabs, and select at least the following:

• Your state's tab
• The Litigation Practice tab

Once you have set up the tabs, explore each tab.

Don't be frustrated if you don't have access to every database. Believe it or not, you are almost certain to have a much broader range of accessible materials in your student subscription than you will when you work in a law firm.