Help with database searching
Although databases often look very different from one another, most of them are constructed and searched using the same basic concepts. By mastering those concepts and taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the particulars of each database's interface, you can improve your search results.
The concepts in the guide will apply, generally, to any database: the library catalog (Lucy2), the various databases on the Subject and Electronic Resources A to Z pages, and Internet search tools. This guide starts with a basic discussion about the nature of databases and progresses to a discussion of more complex techniques for searching databases. Also included are tips on working with the records you receive, a short troubleshooting guide and an index of terms that are used in searching electronic databases.
New! Lexis Nexis Academic Tutorial (added September 24, 2007)
Database concepts
- Every database covers particular topics
- Every database covers a particular time period
- Most databases are indexes
- Some databases provide the full text articles
- A database is composed of records
- When you search a database you are usually searching records NOT text
- Records are composed of fields (e.g. title,author,subject)
Database Search Concepts
- General keyword searching allows you to look for your term anywhere in the record
- Field searching allows you to look for your term in a specific section of the record
- Placing limits or refining your search usually involves field searching
- Phrase searching allows you to search for two or more words that are adjacent to each other
- The common connectors (OR/AND/NOT) used between search terms are called Boolean operators
- Proximity searching allows you to search for terms within a specified number of words from each other
- Truncation and wild cards allow you to search for variations on a word or term
Working With Your Results
- Decide which information you want displayed
- Mark the records you are interested in
- Use "Print Preview" to print only a section of a document/web page
- Save record to disk or e-mail them
Troubleshooting
- Help! Which database should I use?
- Help! I received NO records
- Help! I received only a few records
- Help! I received too many records
Glossary of Database Terms
Database Search Tips Chart
If you have questions about database searching please ask the Reference Librarian - (518) 580-5503.