This document provides guidance on using Boolean operators, truncation, and wildcard symbols to improve search results. It explains that the Boolean operators AND and OR can be used to combine or alternate keywords and concepts. The asterisk * is a truncation symbol to search for word variations or stems. The question mark ? is a wildcard that allows variation of one character. Database search features like truncation and wildcards may differ between resources.

1. Search Skills
AND OR * ?

2. Search Skills
Improve your search results by using:
• BOOLEAN connectors
• truncation * and wildcard ?

3. Search Skills
Boolean Connector
OR
Use the OR connectors to include synonyms or
similar concepts or alternate keywords
(strategic management) OR (strategic planning)

4. Search Skills
Boolean Connector
AND
Use the AND connector to combine multiple
concepts or keywords
(strategic management) AND (sustainable organisation)

5. Search Skills
*
The asterisk * is a truncation symbol
Truncation is used to search for variations of a stem word
Example
organisation* will retrieve
• organisation
• organisations
• organisational

6. Search Skills
?
The question mark ? is a wildcard symbol
It allows for the variation of 1 character.
Example
organi?ation will retrieve
• organization
• organisation
Wildcard symbol is supported by some databases (e.g. ProQuest).
Check the Help section of each database for more information

7. Search via Library Catalogue
For strategic management sustainable organi?ation*
Keyword search in the
Library Catalogue
presumes the
AND Boolean operator
More concise and
relevant results

8. Search via Findit
For strategic management sustainable organi?ation*
Keyword
search in
Findit
presumes the
AND Boolean
operator

9. Search via ProQuest
For strategic management sustainable organi?ation*
ProQuest
select
Boolean
operator
(And / OR)