Part 3. Develop your Search Strategy
11 Strategy #3: Add some Filters
An effective search strategy makes use of the specialized features within the library’s search tools to focus on the kinds of resources you need. Unlike a Google search, Summon, library databases and the catalogue have filters and limits that allow you to further refine your results list in a few ways.
Recall in the second module you were introduced to the idea that information comes in a variety of sources; part of your strategy should be to ensure you are getting the content you need. Does your assignment require that you use only certain kinds of sources? Is there a date restriction? Can you use a video?
Tip: Use a filter or limit
After an initial search, look for these tools to further refine your search
| What do you need? | Filter/Limit |
| Scholarly journal? book/e-book? newspaper article? video? | Content type or source |
| Recent? last 10 years? | Publication date |
| Focussed on a specific subject | Subject headings, discipline, or topic |
ACTIVITY: Selecting the best limits
Click on the arrows to answer the 4 questions below.
