So far we have been discussing searching using keywords and natural language. There are times when keyword searching is sufficient, and there are times when you will get better results using subject headings.

Keyword Searching

In a keyword search, you enter a word/phrase in the search box. The search system looks for the exact words you type, either in the entire database or in the citation, subject and abstract fields, depending on the database you are in.

To do a thorough search by keyword, you would need to think of all the words an author might use to express a topic -- for example, instant message, IM, chat, msn messenger, etc

In some cases, the results can be overwhelming, and not all of the records will be relevant. Keyword searching often produces irrelevant items.

A keyword search may be useful for the following reasons:

• if you want to see what kind of results are available
• if you are not sure what terms to use
• if your topic is very new
• if there is no subject heading for your specific term/s
• if your topic uses specific jargon (e.g., cyberbully, instant messaging)
• if you want to broaden your search with a variety of keywords
• if you want more flexibility in the way you enter a topic

TIP: In most cases, it is beneficial to start with a keyword search. From the relevant records, you can look for other keywords and you can look at the subject headings used. This can help for further expansion or narrowing of your topic.