Like our two flatmates in the video, you too have probably written queries that generate too many or too few results. In either case, the following techniques will help you.

If your search gives you too many results, use:

• more specific keywords with the Boolean operator AND
• the Boolean operator NOT to exclude terms that are not relevant to your research
• quotation marks to search for specific expressions such as “insulin pump”
• filters or criteria in the search tools to refine your results

On the other hand, if your search doesn’t return enough results, use:

• broader keywords
• the Boolean operator OR to add synonyms or equivalent concepts to your search
• truncation (* or ?) to search for terms beginning with the expression you are looking for (e.g., scien*) = science, scientific, scientist, etc.)

Remember, each research tool has its quirks. Ask your friendly librarian for help.