LearningSkillsHub

Developing a search strategy

Yooo

Blog home

Developing a search strategy/h1>

Reflection

Whether you write a full strategy document, have one scribbled in the back of a notebook or have a vague string of useful terms in your phone notes, make sure you assess it for thoroughness and suitability. Reflect on whether you have:

Used a variety of relevant search words.

Expressed your inclusion/exclusion criteria as limits such as date, age, geographic location etc.

Made a list of appropriate resources to search.

Carried out a pilot/scoping search and, if necessary, refined your search strategy.

If yes, then you are ready to begin your main search.

Creating a search strategy may seem like just one more thing to add to your list of tasks but it is helpful for ensuring your search is efficient and effective . Additionally search strategies can  be used to show how thoroughly you have searched, as a basis to record your search and to communicate to others where you found your evidence. The next time you read a journal article, check their methodology section, see if they have included a summary of their search strategy and think about why they have done this. What do you, as a reader/fellow researcher, gain from seeing their search strategy?

Did you find the module useful? Let us know.