An Advanced Keyword Search (Boolean search) is a logical method of searching data that borrows from Boolean logic in mathematics. This type of searching to the best and most efficient strategy to use when searching electronic databases.
These searches are made using keywords and their synonyms and stringing them together using the Boolean Operators (See below).
Also watch the video (borrowed from Morehead State University). The interface looks different than that of AU Libraries, but the concepts presented about constructing advanced searches is the SAME as you should try using with your research.
Advanced keyword searching uses three connectors:
AND -restricts results; says each keyword MUST be present in each record
OR -expands results; says keyword OR synonym(s) are in each record
NOT -excludes keywords; says keyword(s) must NOT be in each record
This logic allows for detailed search strategies that may involve many keywords (synonyms)!
Keyword OR Synonym OR Synonym
AND
Keyword OR Synonym OR Synonym
AND
Keyword OR Synonym OR Synonym
From Camden Carroll Library at Morehead State University
