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Fullerton College Library

History 171: Ashenmiller/Shyrokova (Spring 2020)

Where to find Advanced Search

To access the "Advanced Search" in OneSearch, click on the "Advanced Search" link under the search bar.

Tips for Course Correcting

Problem #1: Too many results.

Tip #1: Narrow down by adding related concepts separated by the word "AND".

For example, try searching "monopoly AND Google"

Tip #2: Narrow down by removing any synonyms separated by the word "OR".

For example, for a search of "Google OR Facebook OR Amazon" try searching just "social media"

Tip #3: Limit by source type on the left side of the screen.

For example, try searching for just "books".

Problem #2: Not enough results.

Tip #1: Add synonyms separated by the keyword "OR"

For example, try searching "Google OR Facebook OR Amazon"

Tip #2: Remove or change any words separated by the word "AND"

Tip #3: Check spelling

Problem #3: Out of search ideas.

Tip #1: Ask a librarian for help. You can email me at ashyrokova@fullcoll.edu.

Tips for good searching

Tip #1: Start Broad

For a broad search, try just one general concept. For example, "monopoly". This will let you get a sense of what kinds of resources are available and give you clues as to how to limit your searching.

Tip #2: Narrow your search with subtopic keywords

Under "Advanced Search" start adding different subtopic keywords to start focusing your search. For example, "monopoly AND Google".

Tip #3: Try different search terms

Think of different ways someone might be trying to describe a topic. For example, try searching for "antitrust" or "anti-competitive behavior". Out of ideas for search terms? Re-read the Research Starter or ask a librarian.