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Databases

Effective database searching process

When searching systematically it is important to use both keywords and subject headings as well as filters and other advanced searching elements.

Explore this guide for more detailed information, but here is an overview of the process:

  • Identify relevant databases or other sources to search.
  • Generate keywords and synonyms from your research question
  • Identify subject headings related to your research question
  • Search using Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to combine both keywords and subject headings 
  • Apply advanced searching elements such as proximity operators
  • Apply limits or filters such as date range, ages, sexes, study type, etc.