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Effective Use of Boolean Operators in Academic Research: A Practical Guide to Database Search Strategies

  • Gurkan SARIDAS
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    Effective Use of Boolean Operators in Academic Research: A Practical Guide to Database Search Strategies

    Authors

    • Gurkan SARIDAS

    DOI:

    https://doi.org/10.64782/istlj.2253329-345

    Keywords:

    literature review, AND OR NOT, Boolean operators, search strategies, academic databases

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    Key findings for this article are provided in the article file.

    Abstract

    This study examines the fundamental functioning and application of Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT), which are frequently used in the information retrieval process of academic research. In literature searches conducted in digital academic databases, well-structured Boolean queries not only save time but also enhance the quality of research. The article explains the history and core concepts of Boolean logic, as well as how these operators are used—with examples—in widely used databases such as Scopus, EBSCO, PubMed, and Web of Science. In addition, common mistakes, practical tips for proper use, and applied query examples based on various research scenarios are presented. The aim of the study is to improve researchers’ information retrieval skills by enabling them to logically construct effective search strategies.

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    How to Cite

    SARIDAS, G. (2025). Effective Use of Boolean Operators in Academic Research: A Practical Guide to Database Search Strategies. International Society That Learn Journal, 2(2), 329-345. https://doi.org/10.64782/istlj.2253329-345

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    References

    Boole, G. (1854). An investigation of the laws of thought: on which are founded the mathematical theories of logic and probabilities (Vol. 2). Walton and Maberly.

    Elsevier. (2025). Scopus LibGuide: Searching Scopus. https://elsevier.libguides.com/Scopus/topical-search

    EBSCO. (2025). Searching with Boolean Operators. https://connect.ebsco.com/s/article/Searching-with-Boolean-Operators

    PubMed. (2025). User guide. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/help

    Russell, P. N. (2010). Artificial intelligence: a modern approach by stuart. Russell and Peter Norvig contributing writers, Ernest Davis...[et al.].

    Tenopir, C., & King, D. W. (2000). Towards electronic journals: realities for scientists, librarians, and publishers (p. 60). Washington, DC: Special Libraries Association.

    Tonta, Y. (1995). Bilgi erişim sistemleri. Türk Kütüphaneciliği, 9(3), 302-314.

    Published

    01.12.2025

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