Use keywords when searching
- Databases are literal, if you search for students with ADHD do worse in math the database will search for that exact phrase.
- Instead pick out keywords from phrases (ADHD, student, math, grades, acheivement)
- Search using keywords connected by AND or OR
Use AND or OR to combine your search terms
- AND (ex: students AND adhd)
- Combines two or more concepts
- Narrows your search
- Retrieves fewer results
- OR (ex: grades OR academic achievement)
- Gets items with at least one of your search terms present
- Used to incorporate synonyms into search
- Gets you more results
Use truncation to locate words beginning with a similar root
- Most databases use an asterisk (*) to truncate words
- Example: educat* will return educate, educating, education, educational, educator, educators, etc...
Use the Advanced Search screen
- The Advanced Search Screen has multiple search boxes for combining search terms with AND or OR.
Use limits to limit, or refine, your search.
- Limits vary by database
- Limiters are usually available on the Advanced Search Screen
- Common limiters include Peer Reviewed and Full Text
Manage your results
- Email, print, and save search results
- Always save your work in more than one place!
