Suggested Search Terms
Here are some potential search terms to consider as you look for articles and other information for your projects in the resources below:
The Library's databases may have different interfaces, but they do share basic search principles. Some of these principles are listed below. It is important to look for the "Advanced Search" option of the database as it offers you greater control over the construction of your search. The advanced search interface for most library database will usually display options for the following:
Boolean Searching |
Boolean Searching is the cornerstone to an effective search strategy. Boolean searching refers to searching using a combination of search terms connected by the three Boolean Operators: AND, OR, NOT.
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Phrase Searching |
To search for two or more words in the exact order in which they are entered you should enclose the phrase in quotation marks " ". Examples: "brick and mortar" |
Truncation |
Truncation allows you to search the "root" form of a word with all its different endings by adding a symbol to the end of a word. Truncation symbols vary by database (check the help screens or ask a Librarian), but are usually one of the below: * (asterisk) ! (exclamation point) ? (question mark) For example: wom* will search for woman, women,.... |
Field Searching & Limiters |
Each database has a variety of predefined fields or limiters that you can search within. Some examples of fields and limiters are:
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