Syntax is the way in which words are
combined to form a string of words or a phrase for a specific purpose.
Search syntax is the string of words you use to implement a search
within any electronic information resource, including the World Wide Web.
Search syntax is your gateway to the wealth of information that is now available
electronically. While the elements of any given search syntax will be similar,
whatever the context, they are not always identical.
There is no one standard to which all search engines adhere. Your keys to
success will be the instructions that accompany each information source you
use and the tips that follow.
| Use discriminating terms that are most likely to be found in the documents you seek. |
| The more specific words you use, the better the results. |
| Identify phrases (generally with quotation marks). |
| Add qualifying words or phrases to further refine your query. |
| Separate multiple phrases or proper names with a comma. |
Use lower case
to match words in any case. Lower case does not discriminate.
|
Use UPPER case
to indicate an exact match when searching for a proper name. UPPER
case does discriminate.
|
| Use a require or reject operator (+ , -) |
| Use Boolean operators "and," "or," "not," "adj" (adjacent) |
Information Sources | Selecting the Best | Developing a Research Strategy | Subject & Keyword Searching | Narrowing Your Search | Expanding Your Search | Whys & Hows of Search Syntax | Search Syntax for Life | Glossary
Last updated: Friday, 02-Jul-2004 16:48:38 EDT