Identifying Keywords
Electronic databases can’t tell what you are thinking. They simply search for the words and phrases you give them. Sometimes you get out-of-context results, sometimes you get too few results, sometimes you get too many results.
Here are some strategies for improving your searches:
| Use Synonyms | Examples | |
| Think of a variety of words used to describe your concept. Databases search literally for the words you give them. In a recent search in Business Source Premier, the phrase “electronic commerce” found more than four times as many results as “e-commerce.” |
e-commerce electronic commerce internet commerce |
|
| Use the Database’s Own Vocabulary | Examples | |
| Many of the library databases apply their own Subject Headings to articles. Look for these words, either in your search results as “Subjects” or as suggested topics for further searching. |
inmates Use instead: prisoners |
|
| Think Bigger or Smaller | Examples | |
|
If your search is too specific, you may not get enough results. Or, if your search is too general, you may be overwhelmed. Think of ways to make your search broader or narrower. |
computer crimes internet fraud phishing |
|