Tips for Searching Online Databases
Correct Spelling:
Make sure you have the correct spelling for search terms. Some databases may suggest alternate spellings, but others will not.
Search Phrases:
Do not type complete sentences or questions as your search. Doing so will often result in few or no search results. Choose a keyword or phrase that describes what you are looking for. Connect keywords and phrases with "AND" or use the advanced search option.
Example 1:
Are there any critical articles of Mark Twain's book titled Huckleberry Finn?
- A search for the above information should look something like:
criticism AND "huckleberry finn"
Example 2:
I need to find an article having to do with psychology.
Since psychology is such a broad topic, you will want to narrow your search. You may need to consult your psychology textbook in order to pinpoint a specific topic to focus on:
- psychology AND alternative medicine
- depression AND treatment
Quotation Marks:
Put quotation marks around distinctive phrases.
Example: "usa patriot act"
Truncation:
Use truncation symbols to expand your search. Truncation allows a database to search for multiple forms of a root word. The symbol for truncation may vary among databases.
Example: creat* will find create, created, creative, creativity, etc.
| Database Name | Truncation Symbol Used |
| PCC Library Catalog | $ |
| Academic Search Complete | * |
| Literature Criticism Online |
* |
If you are not finding the information you need:
- try different search terms related to your topic
- use fewer words in your search
- try other databases
- ASK US! A librarian will be happy to help you.
