Understanding search techniques

TRUNCATION is used to search for words with common suffixes such as: -es, -ers, -ed, - ised, - ing. This will increase the number of search results.

The base of a word is entered followed by an asterisk.

• keyboard* will find keyboard, keyboards, keyboarding

A WILDCARD replaces a letter within a word to search for alternative spelling.

• organi?ation will find organisation or organization.
• ?nquiry will find enquiry or inquiry.

Check the help screens of the database or search engine you are using to ensure the correct symbol is used for wildcards or truncation.