How to use CD-ROMs and other databases

Summary

The key points to remember about using databases are:

• subject coverage, emphasis, years covered and content vary between databases, so you may need to search in more than one
• think about the key concepts you are looking for before you start searching. Write them down if necessary. Look for alternative terms.
• if you want to get more records (hits) from a search combine terms using OR
• if you want to get fewer records from a search combine terms using AND, or use a limiting option
• use relevant subject headings (descriptors) as search terms.
• using database functions like Truncation (sometimes called wildcarding) or Limiting can make searches more efficient.
• always logoff once you have finished so that others can use the database.

if you need more help contact the library.