9.4 Database Search Strategies
Searching databases
Before we start searching in the databases, it is important to understand the concepts behind the basic search tools. Library databases (as well as Web search engines) include features that allow you to focus and control your search.
Please watch the following 5-minute video from Yavapai College Library. The video explains and then demonstrates some of the most common strategies and tools for effective database searching, including:
- Adding keywords to narrow the search
- Phrase searching (using quotation marks around exact phrases)
- Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT)
- Limiters (full text, date range, source type)
- Automatic citation tools
Additional viewing options: Turn on closed captions with the "CC" button, or use the text transcript if you prefer to read.
"Searching Databases Links to an external site.." YouTube, uploaded by Yavapai College Library, 11 Oct. 2011.