As you evaluate the results of each search, you will know whether or not you need to revise your search statement.
If you got too few results (less than 10):
Do you need additional relevant material? If the answer is yes, then:
In print access tools
- Look for cross-references to more appropriate terms.
- Try alternative terms from your primary concept category.
- Try a broader term.
In online access tools
- Look at the subject headings (descriptors, identifiers) for the most relevant items you have found. Try using the most relevant of these new terms in your search statement.
- Look at your search statement. Try
- using an alternative term from your primary concept list.
- using an alternative term from your secondary concept list.
- eliminating the least important secondary concept term.
Look at your access tool
- Is it the best choice for your project.
- Does it cover the date range of the information you need.
- Try a different access tool from your list of possible access tools.
- ASK A LIBRARIAN which access tool you should use.
Would you like to see a
flowchart
of this process?
