Major Steps in a Search
Construct Search Strategies
Create search by combining concepts with Boolean operators. Use subject terms and keywords in combination.
Boolean Logic Operators:
AND |
retrieve items with both concepts/terms |
fall AND prevention |
OR |
retrieve items with either concept/term |
fall OR trip OR slip |
NOT |
excludes concepts from results |
fall NOT stand |
- Identify key concepts and related terms of your topic
- Select subject terms using database controlled vocabulary
- Search each concept individually
- Combine multiple search terms using Boolean operators (AND, OR)
- Refine your results by using limits such as publication date, type, population group, age that will reduce search results
- Remember that searching for specific information can be a complex process