Database searching
Example
Kate uses the first database that was recommended by her subject librarian. It contains descriptions of archives that are held in UK universities and colleges. You can usually browse or search through the available resources in databases. A quick search can be a good place to start; they are quite basic and you can only enter a few descriptive words. Kate chooses the advanced search option so that she can control the search parameters as much as possible.
Many databases give you the option of using Boolean Operators (AND, OR) to refine their search. Boolean Operators can help you refine your search:
- AND - returns matches that contain all of your terms
- OR - returns matches that contain any of your terms
Kate enters the following information into the search window:
- Queen Elizabeth I (full text option) - 2345 results
- Queen Elizabeth I (title option) AND Spanish Armada (full text option) - 1 result
- Queen Elizabeth I (title option) OR Spanish Armada (full text option) - 171 results
- Elizabeth I (full text option) - 1939 results
- Elizabeth I (title option) AND Spanish Armada (full text option) - 1 result
- Elizabeth I (title option) OR Spanish Armada (full text option) - 171 results
This example highlights the difference redefining your terms and / or using Boolean Operators can make to your search results. Take time to redefine your search parameters as you may find more relevant information. Read the database help pages for the database you are using to ensure you are searching in the correct way.
Further Work
Choose a database that your college has access to and experiment with your keywords and search parameters. See if your results improve by using Boolean Operators. Remember that you can use combinations of Boolean Operators when searching. Ask your tutor for guidance on this.
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