What's a library database?
Watch 'What's a library database?' on YouTube.
How to choose the best database
There are many databases available, each providing information in a specific subject area, so it is important that you choose the right one. RMIT University librarians have written subject guides for the subjects taught at RMIT University, and each guide has a list of recommended databases and a link to the database.
Database search strategies
Unlike Google, most of the databases you will be using require you to develop a search strategy in order to carry out a search. Database searching may involve:
- Connecting keywords or phrases with "Boolean operators" like AND, OR, and NOT
- Using symbols—called truncation and wildcard symbols—to broaden or narrow a search
- Using suggested terms or related subject terms to broaden your search and link to other relevant articles
- Using limiting options to help narrow your search (e.g. selecting only scholarly/peer-reviewed articles or only full-text articles).
Learn more about searching efficiently in databases by completing this activity:
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