The University of Arizona Libraries has a Search Strategy Builder tool that helps you map out a search using Boolean Operators. Check it out by clicking the link below:
Boolean Logic
For better search results, try Boolean Operators!
| AND | OR | NOT |
| Narrows search results | Broadens search results | Narrows search results |
| Search separate concepts | Search synonyms | Exclude search terms |
| Results contain both concepts | Results contain either or both synonyms |
Results do not contain excluded search terms |
|
Example: holocaust AND memory |
Example: "racial hygiene" OR eugenics |
Example: holocaust NOT (film or "motion pictures") |
Phrase Searching
Phrase searching narrows your search results to include the exact phrase you are searching for - two or more words in precise order. Phrase searching is also handy when searching on specific titles or quotes especially when searching the open web or when trying to locate a full-text article.
For example:
"concentration camps"
"national socialism"
Truncation
Truncation will broaden your search and look for variations of a root word. For example:
Searching on genetic* will search for the root word genetic and all extensions of the word including:
Nesting
Nesting will broaden your search and is most commonly used between synonyms. Use nesting to organize your search strategy as follows:
("extermination camps" OR "death camps") AND holocaust
Video by McMaster Libraries