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PsycINFO Database

   Ready to Power Search PsycINFO?

 

Here are the most important things to remember:

  1.  The search platform is Use EBSCO search syntax.
  2. The most effective searches in this database will be built from fielded sets — use the fields — especially descriptors and keywords.
  3. Start by building your sets with the Thesaurus. 
  4. Broader terms do not include narrower terms. You need to "OR" all relevant terms together. 

 How to Power Search

The most effective searches in this database will be built from fielded sets — use the fields — especially descriptors and keywords.

There is a very strong Thesaurus of descriptors. Start by building your sets with the Thesaurus. 

Remember:  broader terms do not include narrower terms. You need to "OR" all relevant terms together. For example, a record about "transformational leadership" might not include the  broader descriptor "Leadership" and won't show up in a search on just the broader term.

Also Remember: The "keyword" field is the place for significant proper nouns, e.g. names and countries.

 

​ Descriptors (Subject Headings) and other Unique and Useful Record Fields

 

The descriptor (subject heading) field is created from the Thesaurus of descriptors, which is a list of controlled vocabulary used to unify all concepts under one term. It also shows the relationships of terms to one another: broader, narrower, and related terms. 

The keyword field can hold any significant words including proper nouns.

The methodology field is unique in this database. You can browse this field and create sets by clicking "indexes" on the top bar, then browse the index "methodology." This may be very useful for your ILA's and Research Redesign.

The classifications code field can be very useful in narrowing sets to very broad sectors or concepts. For example, 22* in the class code (CC) field combined with your subject set will limit to methodological aspects. 36* in the class code (CC) field combined with your subject set will limit to organizational psychology. A set of 32* or 33* in the class code (CC) field removed from your subject set will eliminate all records related to treatment or psychopathology. See Class coded list below.

The tests&measures field should hold any instrument used in the study. You can browse this field and create sets  by clicking "indexes" on the top bar, then browse the index "tests&measures."


​ Proximity [Phrase Searching], Truncation, Wildcards

See Tools of Power Searching. Uses EBSCOhost search syntax.


​ Fielded Searches/Combining Sets : Examples