When doing any type of evidence synthesis project, it is important to search in more than one database. Each database uses different search syntax and even different controlled vocabulary to index each source. In order to ensure that your search means the same thing in each database, you will need to "translate" your search so that it will work in different databases.
You will need to pay attention to two main things when translating your search:
- Field codes
- Field codes allow you to indicate to the database where you want it to search for your term. Each database has different codes and syntax for its fields.
- Controlled vocabulary
- Most databases use a controlled vocabulary to assign topics to sources. You will need to look up your terms in each database's controlled vocabulary.
Resources to help you translate your search:
Note: search translators can help with database syntax and field codes, but they will not change controlled vocabulary or translate perfectly. They are a good place to start, but you will need to review and update them to ensure a good translation.
Boxer Library
