Module 2: Search Strategies

Mechanics of Keyword Searching

Remember, searching by keyword gives you the freedom to choose terms instead of using pre-determined controlled vocabulary that you use when searching by subject.

Try this hands-on activity to see the difference between subject and keyword searching:

Keyword vs. Subject Headings Searching Tips:

• Use both keyword AND subject searching to get better results
• Start with keyword searching using your own words to describe your topic
• After getting keyword results, focus on the most relevant, and use the subject headings listed to perform a subject headings search

To get a computer to return the most relevant results on your topic, you must change your research question into a search strategy.

In following section you will learn how to create complex searches. Once you have mastered this, you will be able to search effectively for information in the library catalog and databases.