This tool is designed to help you create a search string using Boolean search operators. Add your key concepts and synonyms then click the button. The resulting search string can be copied and pasted into a database search box or UMBrella.
What are Boolean operators?
They are commands given to a database, a catalog or any search engine to return specific search results. Using these commands will give you better results and save you time searching for relevant materials.
The two main Boolean operators are AND, OR. When you connect keywords with them, it means that:
AND - narrows a search; connects two or more words (or phrases)
Use to include two or more key concepts, such as physical activity AND cardiovascular disease
OR - broadens a search; allows either word (or phrase) to be included
Use to expand your search to related concepts, such as exercise OR physical activity OR exercise
Exact Matching
Using Quotation Marks: encloses search terms with double quotation marks (i.e. "global warming") the search engine looks for words in the exact order. add
Examples:
Truncation
Truncation: Search for the root of a word to allow for multiple endings
This tool is designed to help you create a search string using Boolean search operators. Add your key concepts and synonyms then click the button. The resulting search string can be copied and pasted into a database search box or UMBrella.
Copy and paste the above search string into a search box