Boolean operators are words that help you control your search results in databases. They tell the database how your keywords should work together.
Results must include both terms.
Example:
ring AND mythology
magic AND symbolism
Results can include either term (use for synonyms).
Example:
amulet OR talisman
sword OR blade
Removes unwanted results
Example:
magic ring NOT Tolkien
phoenix symbolism NOT Harry Potter
Quotation marks search for an exact phrase. They tell the database to keep the words together.
Example:
hero’s journey symbolism vs. "hero’s journey" AND symbolism
"material culture" AND objects
Parentheses help you group related words in a search. They tell the database to treat these words as one idea.
Example:
(amulet OR talisman) AND protection
Now the database understands:
First, look for amulet OR talisman
Then, narrow to results about protection
Try more complex search strings: (amulet OR talisman OR charm) AND protection AND folklore
This video demonstrates how to use filters in databases to get better results, including how to limit to scholarly or academic journal articles. The video also shows how to use a variety of database features to manage results including e-mailing yourself articles and how to get an APA or MLA citation for an article.
Filters save time and improve quality of sources. Some common filters are:
Date range (e.g., last 5–10 years).
Peer-reviewed (ensures scholarly).
Document type (research article, review, criticism)