A search strategy has four basic components:
Picking a database or other resource to search in depends on the type of question you are asking and how the answer will be applied.
Select a database (or a few databases) to search based on the field, topic, or type of literature you need to appropriately answer your question.
Use the All Databases and Online Resources A-Z list to locate and access the best resources to answer your question.
Search terms should represent the primary concepts of your question. You should create a list of search terms to include in your search.
Keywords to include are:
You should make sure that you are only using subject matter words.
Do Not Use:
Most databases use Boolean Operators to connect different search terms together. You can use these to connect your search terms to both narrow and expand your search results.
The Boolean Operators are:
| AND | OR | NOT |
|---|---|---|
| Make search narrower | Make search broader | Make search narrower |
| Connect together two different concepts | Connect alternate terms for the same concept |
Remove search terms |
Filters (also called "Limits") help narrow your search. They apply a preset search limit that the database has developed for your use.
Some of the most popular filters are:
If you're short on time, consult these resources first to get an answer to your clinical question.