There are two types of databases: general databases and subject databases.

General databases are often used at the beginning of the research process because they help you narrow a topic. They are also used when your topic doesn't fit into a specific subject, or if you want information that isn't too technical.

Examples of general periodical databases are:

Academic Search Premier	academic journals, magazines, and newspapers
Newsbank	newspapers and magazines from around the world
CQ Researcher	in-depth articles on issues in the news from a division of Congressional Quarterly