Search tips

1. How to create a search strategy

Explore the following methods to create your search strategy:

Search operators
Nesting
Phrase searching
Truncation and wildcards

The videos below provide an example of these methods.

Using "AND"

Using "OR"

Using the truncation symbol

2. Search strategy

Before you begin searching for information, plan ahead and create a search strategy. Use the keywords, task words and limiting words you have identified within your topic.

Here is an example of a search strategy, using search operators (OR and AND), phrase searching, nesting and truncation:

Multiple search boxes:

Single search box:

3. Search strategy exercise

Instructions

Practice creating an appropriate search query for the question given (left) by placing the concept and operator labels into the box in the correct order. Then click "check answer." You will probably not use all of the labels.