Your search strategies will depend partly on which research tools you use. For example, library databases usually require that you use a limited number of search terms that are descriptive of your research topic. You may need to try different search terms and combinations of terms before you get results.
Search engines like Google tend to be less picky about your terms. However, Google search results also usually require more careful evaluation of source credibility, since it includes a larger number of sources from a wider range of places.
This page describes search strategies for general searching, as well as for databases.
Keep it simple! Start by typing the name of a relevant thing, place, or concept:
Add relevant words if you don't see what you want after doing a simple search:
It may take several attempts to find the right words to describe your topic.
Try other words to describe what you're looking for:
Use only the important words. Too many words will limit your results:
Use quotation marks to search for an exact phrase to narrow results.
Use an asterisk (*) as a truncation symbol to search for all endings to a word. (This works in most databases and in Google.)
Start Small! Begin with just one or a few search terms. Add additional terms if you have too many results.
Use good search terms. Use terms that are more specific. Do not use OR between terms that mean different things (for example, do not search [women OR salary]
Too few search terms. If you only have one general term in the search box, consider adding another word that expressed what aspect of that term you are interested in.
Use limiters. Limiters (such as date, format, language of publication) give you more targeted results.
Topic is too broad. Narrow the scope of your search. Think about the different aspects of your topic you will address and search for them separately. Then synthesize the information. You may need to narrow your topic if it is too large to cover in a short paper.
Is this the best database for your topic? If you are using a subject-specific database (Education, Psychology, etc), try a multidisciplinary database that includes other topic areas that maybe you haven't considered.
Be prepared to try several different databases. Each one is made up of a different mix of material. If you need a subject-specific database, use the subject listing pull-down menu on the A-Z Database listing.
Use good search terms. Check spelling and brainstorm synonyms or related terms. You can use OR between synonyms (for example: salary OR pay OR compensation).
Too many search terms. If you have three or more search terms, try removing one to see if your results improve.
Too many limiters. Use only limiters that are absolutely necessary.
Your topic is too narrow. What is the broader theme of your topic? Break your topic down and search for different parts separately. For example, if you are comparing primary school education in China and Spain, search for articles about each country separately. Then synthesize the information you find.
Looking for books, print journals or media? Search the Library Catalog.
Can you use a limiter to focus your results? Use the facets on the left side of the search results page to limit by subject, author, language, etc.
Need help? Email library@bvu.edu or chat with a BVU Librarian.
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