Use proper keywords - The terms you use to search will directly affect your results. Think of synonyms for the words or phrases you are searching for. Think of related concepts or ideas about what you want to find. Don't give up with the first search words you use, but use a variety of words/ideas. (Remember, spelling matters.) Often, a database will have a controlled vocabulary. That is, a standard set of terms used to describe subjects. Using these terms could provide a more complete set of results.