How to conduct advanced searches using keywords on academic platforms?

Advanced searches on academic platforms utilize specific operators and filters to refine results beyond simple keyword entry. These techniques enable precise retrieval of relevant scholarly materials through controlled term combinations. Effective strategies require mastering Boolean logic (AND, OR, NOT) to connect or exclude concepts, phrase searching using quotation marks for exact matches, and truncation symbols (often *) to capture word variants. Platform-specific filters for publication date, subject area, document type (e.g., article, review), and source ranking are essential. Precise keyword selection reflecting core research concepts and controlled vocabulary (like MeSH in PubMed) significantly enhances relevance. Always verify the specific syntax rules of the platform being used. Begin by formulating a clear research question to identify essential keywords. Enter these into the advanced search interface, strategically incorporating Boolean operators to link concepts and quotation marks for phrases. Apply available filters to narrow results by date, subject, or document type. If initial results are unsatisfactory, refine keywords using synonyms or platform thesauri, adjust Boolean logic, and consider utilizing citation tracking or related articles features. Evaluate retrieved results for relevance and repeat the process as needed to optimize precision and recall.