Boolean Operators
Using the advanced search option in LibSearch or library databases like Academic Search Premier will allow you to search multiple keywords at the same time. You will connect your keywords with Boolean operators (like AND, OR, and NOT). AND and NOT narrow your search results while OR broadens them. To search for an exact phrase, use quotes around it.
Wildcards
Another way to broaden a search is by using wildcards as placeholders. This involves using an asterisk in a keyword to include all variations of that word in your search.
Examples:
ethic* = ethic, ethics, ethical, ethically
teen* = teen, teens, teenager, teenagers
wom*n = woman, women
Subjects
Using subjects or subject terms in your search can provide more focused and accurate results. Subjects are created to "tag" articles about a similar topic. These subjects are usually listed on the right-hand side or along the top of your search results. Although you can narrow your results by checking one of the subject boxes, you can also search by SUBJECT instead of simply using keywords.
Example using LibSearch
Example using Academic Search Premier:
This work is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0
