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.