Keyword or basic searching is simply typing words into the search box to get a list of results that contain those words. Databases search for the exact words entered in the search box. If it can't find all your terms in an article, it won't return that article as a result. So plan your search terms carefully:
Identify the main concepts in your topic or question.
List any synonyms or antonyms (include academic rather than informal language).
Spell out any abbreviations.
Add to your list of terms as you discover more during research.
Keep in mind that keyword searching is best used for a very specific topic.