Developing search strategies / Databases

Too many resultts

Previous | Next

If you got too many results (more than 100)

In a database

• Scan the first 20 or so items. How many are relevant to your project?
• If more than half of these are relevant:
  • add a term to your search statement from the next most important secondary concept category.
  • look at the subject headings (descriptors, identifiers) on the most relevant item retrieved so far. Use the most relevant terms you find in a new search statement.
• If only a few are relevant:
  • use an alternative term from your primary concept category
  • look at your thesis statement and concept table - is your topic accurately described?

In a print access tool

• Scan the subdivision headings for relevant aspects of the broad subject.
• Scan the items listed under relevant subdivisions.
• Look for cross references to a narrower or more focused main heading for your topic.