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Using AND
Note: in most, but not all, databases, the AND is implied. For example, Google automatically puts an AND in between search terms. Example: renewable energy AND China |
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Using OR
Example: renewable energy OR solar OR wind |
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Using NOT
This operator is great when you notice your search term is used in different disciplines. You might use this example when researching peacekeeping in the context of interpersonal conflict but your search results in documents about international conflict. Example: peacekeeping NOT United Nations |
Adapted from SAIS Library, Johns Hopkins Univ. "Database Search Tips" Guide (no longer extant).
If your initial searches bring back no or few results, don't give up! Don't despair! Reassess your search strategy.
Choosing the right search terms is key.
Database can be picky about search terms. Be selective.
Highly specific topics may be too narrow for finding results. Try a broader related topic first.
Example:
Different databases focus on different topics, so it could be that your search terms are well calibrated, but you're looking in the wrong place. View Resources by Subject or Ask a Librarian.
Example:
Examples:
Records in library databases are made of "fields." Fields can help narrow your search.
Use quotation marks or parentheses around search words to search for a phrase. Otherwise most databases will find records that include both terms, but not necessary the terms as a phrase.
Examples:
"middle east"
"united nations peacekeeping forces"
"civil society"
Adapted from SAIS Library, Johns Hopkins Univ. "Database Search Tips" Guide
Truncation broadens your search to include variant word endings and spellings. Enter the root of a word and then the truncation symbol.
Examples:
elect* = election, electoral, elections
econ* = economy, economic, economics, econometric, economique
politi* = politics, political, politician, politique, politische
The most commonly used truncation symbol is an asterisk (*)
A exception is LexisNexis Academic, which uses an exclamation mark (!).
Adapted from SAIS Library, Johns Hopkins Univ. "Database Search Tips" Guide
Nesting is the use of parenthesis to put search words into sets. Use nesting with AND, OR, or NOT,
Example:
success AND (education OR employment)
(records will contain the word success, AND either the word education OR the word employment)
Nesting is often used when search terms have similar meanings:
Example:
education AND (employment OR jobs)
? Wildcards are similar to truncation, but substitute a symbol for just one character. The most commonly used single wildcard symbol is a question mark.
Examples:
wom?n = woman, women
democrati?ation = democratisation, democratization
defen?e = defence, defense
19?? = any number between 1900 and 1999
Some exceptions: LexisNexis Academic uses an asterisk (*). Other databases use the pound (#) symbol.
If in doubt, check the help screens of the database you're using.