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English 102, Part I - MCCC Library resources, Searching and Databases: Effective Searching

Covering effective computer searching for locating academic resources using the MCCC Library’s online databases

Effective Computer Searching

Computer search tools like Google and library databases are just that... tools. Knowing how to skillfully use these tools, you will be able to find needed information quickly and efficiently. As with any skill, it can take practice to be really good at it. Below are some methods you can use to effectively locate information when searching a computer based resource.

Research Help

Boolean Searching

By connecting you search terms with the words, "and", "or", "not", you can greatly improve your search results. The video below from Oregon School Library Information System explains how. (Running time 6:26)

Effective Computer Searching

Along with Boolean searching, there are more tools that you can use to help focus your searches. Some of these tools include:

  • Nesting
  • Phrase searching
  • Truncations
  • Wild cards

The following video from the Oregon School Library Information System will introduce you to these tools. (Running time 6:46)