There are a number of ways you can refine your results so that you can find the most relevant articles. These include:
Records in library databases are made up of different fields that contain specific pieces of information about each resource. By focusing your search on certain fields, you can get more relevant results. Common fields include:
Searching within the abstract field (AB) can be especially helpful. Since abstracts summarize the main points of an article, they often contain important keywords. If you find a keyword in an abstract, the article is more likely to be relevant. Abstracts are also a good place to find extra keywords that you can use to improve your search strategies.
Some databases will have additional fields relevant to the content or discipline area of the database.
Journal databases use a controlled vocabulary when organising article records, which helps group information by topic. By controlling the vocabulary, the database makes sure that synonyms and similar phrases are all listed under one main term.
You can use the database’s vocabulary in your search. When you're in a database, you'll usually find a link near the search boxes called Thesaurus, Subjects, or Subject Headings.
Primo Search and most databases also allow you to limit your search or refine your results using filters. The available options will depend on the specific database you are using. Common filters include:
Use material or publication type filters to refine your search and focus on specific resource types, such as:
Charles Sturt University acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which its campuses are located, paying respect to Elders, both past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.
Charles Sturt University is an Australian University, TEQSA Provider Identification: PRV12018. CRICOS Provider: 00005F.
