## 2.3 : How can I receive either fewer or more search results?

No one is prepared to evaluate the relevance of each individual search result when there are hundreds, if not thousands, of them. Therefore, it's wise to use a smart method to find, at a maximum, dozens of search results – without overlooking relevant search results.

See below for tips to use if you are receiving too many search results:

- Rather than a simple search, use 'advanced search' so you can apply more filters;
- Use the Boolean AND operator and use the OR operator critically;
- Use 'narrower' terms;
- Truncate the word as late as possible;
- Limit your search to the 'title/abstract field' rather than searching all fields;
- Limit your search to the most recent publications by filtering on publication year. For example, results beginning from 2010.

It is highly frustrating not to receive any search results. Of course, it's also possible that the database in question does not provide relevant information on your subject. Try one of the following tips if you receive little to no search results:

- Use advanced search rather than simple search;
- Search within all possible fields;
- Search, if possible, in the full text;
- Use synonyms, translations and plural forms and combine these with the Boolean OR operator;
- Use both 'related' and 'broader' terms and combine these with the Boolean OR operator.