What is an effective strategy for enhancing keyword search results in a literature review?

Using Boolean logic is an effective strategy for enhancing keyword search results in a literature review because it allows researchers to create more precise and relevant searches. By employing operators such as AND, OR, and NOT, one can combine multiple keywords strategically to either narrow down results or expand them based on the research needs.

For instance, using "AND" connects different concepts and retrieves results that include all specified terms, which helps refine searches when looking for specific intersections of topics. Conversely, "OR" is useful for broadening the search to include any of the terms listed, which can capture a wider range of literature. The flexibility provided by Boolean operators helps in honing the search to yield the most pertinent studies, enabling a more effective literature review.

In contrast, focusing solely on one keyword may limit the scope of results and overlook relevant literature that might explore the topic through different terminologies. Ignoring search filters overlooks important settings that can refine search parameters, such as date limits or publication types, which can lead to retrieving less relevant articles. Limiting searches to one database can restrict access to a broader range of evidence, as different databases host various journals and articles, potentially missing crucial findings available elsewhere. Thus, using Boolean logic enhances the literature review process significantly through strategic keyword