Stage 2: Developing the Search: Step 3: How to Create a Search Strategy

Developing a Search Strategy

A search strategy is an organized structure of the keywords used in a search according to each database's specific syntax. Because each database has a unique syntax, a search strategy must be tailored for each database.

Your goals in this step are to:

• Develop the search strategy for each database that you have selected
• Pilot your search strategies
• Validate your search strategies

Remember to be patient and to carefully organize your strategies, as your strategy will ultimately effect the quality and comprehensiveness of your search results. This process will likely requiter several iterations.