Electronic databases can’t tell what you are thinking. They simply search for the words and phrases you give them. Sometimes you get out-of-context results, sometimes you get too few results, sometimes you get too many results.
Here are some strategies for improving your searches:
| Use Synonyms |
Examples |
Think of a variety of words used to describe your concept.
Databases search literally for the words you give them.
In a recent search in Business Source Complete, the
phrase “electronic commerce” found more than four times
as many results as “e-commerce.”
|
e-commerce
electronic commerce
internet commerce
|
| Use the Database’s Own Vocabulary |
Examples |
Many of the library databases apply their own Subject Headings
to articles. Look for these words, either in your search results
as “Subjects” or as suggested topics for further searching. |
inmates
Use instead: prisoners
|
| Think Bigger or Smaller |
Examples |
|
If your search is too specific, you may not get enough results.
Or, if your search is too general, you may be overwhelmed.
Think of ways to make your search broader or narrower.
|
computer crimes
internet fraud
phishing
|
