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Basic search techniques

Use different search techniques to perform better searches in the library search tool and other databases. On this page you will find tips on when to use the library search tool and when to use a specific database. Here you will also find answers to frequently asked questions about the library search tool.

Search efficiently using the search tool and databases

On this page you will find tips on basic search techniques to improve your searches. We use the library search tool as an example but most of the techniques can be used when you search for information in databases as well.

Get fewer hits by narrowing your search

Sometimes you get too many results when you search for information. To limit your result and get fewer hits, you can use these techniques.

Get more results by expanding your search

Sometimes you get too few results when you search for information. To extend your search, you can use these techniques.

Combine multiple search terms using parentheses

If you want to combine several different search terms and their synonyms in your search, you can create a search string using parentheses. Type OR between the words that are synonymous and make a parenthesis around each such group of synonyms. In this way you can control which parts must be included in the results.

If you search for headache AND (exercise OR "physical fitness" OR sports) you will get hits where the word headache and at least one of the words in the parenthesis occur.

Films about search techniques

Film: Finding scientific material

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Finding scientific material

About different types of publications and how to find scientific material for connecting previous research to your work.

Film: Do you get too few search hits when you are searching?

Do you want to load external content from Youtube, Vimeo and Umu-play?

Do you get too few search hits when you are searching?

Expand your search with different search techniques.

Film: Do you get too many search hits when you are searching?

Do you want to load external content from Youtube, Vimeo and Umu-play?

Do you get too many search hits when you are searching?

Narrow your search with different search techniques.

Frequently asked questions about the library search tool

 

Learn more

Questions about information searching?

Do you feel lost among databases and scholarly publications? Visit our drop-in sessions or make an appointment for a tutorial and we will help you. You can also submit short questions via chat or the contact form or ask the staff at the information desk.

Latest update: 2024-10-11