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Five Quick Tips to Improving Search
Results
Tip # 1
The default connector in Ovid is ADJ (meaning "adjacent"),
compared to the default of AND in some systems. Thus, in
Ovid, if two or more words are entered without a connector between
them, the system retrieves only citations in which the words appear
next to one another. Adjacency searching is much more restrictive.
Of course, if you wish to use the AND connector in Ovid you
may do so by typing AND between your search terms. This will
override Ovid's default connector.
Tip # 2
Leave the Map Term to Subject Heading box checked on the main
search page. When active, it allows you to take advantage of the sophisticated
mapping function which automatically directs you to controlled vocabulary
terms (Medical Subject Headings) that are used in the database to
describe your topic. (Note that the mapping option is offered only
in the Advanced Mode of Ovid and only for databases with a mapping
capability).
Tip # 3
Begin subject searching by entering only a SINGLE word or phrase
at the Enter Keyword or phrase line and click on the Perform Search
button.
Ovid will present the Mapping Display page which lists up to ten
controlled vocabulary terms most likely to be used for your subject.
Note: Although you are also given the option to include your original
keywords as the last entry on this list, we advise you not
to check that box if you have also checked one of the other listed
terms.
Tip # 4
Select the Focus box if you wish to limit your search to
those documents in which your subject heading is considered the
major focus of an article.
Tip # 5
Do not use the browser's "Back" button when the
Continue, Return to Main Search Screen, or Return to Tree Display
button choices are available on the Ovid screens. Otherwise, Ovid
may not be able to maintain the proper continuity of your session.
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