Q. Why does my search return too few results?

Finding only a few results, or no results at all, is a common part of the research process. In many cases, a small result set does not mean information doesn't exist. It often means the search needs to be adjusted.

Check Your Keywords

Researchers sometimes begin with search terms that are too specific.

For example:

• Very Specific: artificial intelligence and nursing students in rural Ohio
• Broader: artificial intelligence and nursing education

Starting with a broader search can help you discover useful sources before narrowing your focus.

Try Synonyms and Related Terms

Authors may use different terminology than the words you selected.

For example, a search for:

• college students

might also include terms such as:

• undergraduates
• higher education students
• university students

Using alternative terms can significantly increase the number of relevant results.

Remove Unnecessary Search Terms

Each additional keyword narrows a search. If you are not finding enough information, try removing one concept and searching more broadly.

For example:

• mental health AND social media AND first-year students AND Ohio

could become:

• mental health AND social media

You can then review results and identify ways to narrow the topic later.

Review Your Database Filters

Filters are useful, but they can sometimes eliminate relevant sources.

Consider whether you have limited your results by:

• Publication date
• Peer-reviewed status
• Source type
• Subject category
• Full-text availability

Removing or adjusting filters may help uncover additional resources.

Search Multiple Databases

Different databases cover different subjects and publications. A topic may have very few results in one database but many results in another.

If you are struggling to find sources, consider searching additional databases related to your discipline.

Use References to Discover More Sources

Once you locate a useful article or book, review its references or bibliography. Researchers often use sources that have already been identified by other scholars to discover additional information.

Research Is an Iterative Process

Most researchers revise and adjust their searches many times. Finding information often involves experimenting with different keywords, concepts, and search strategies.

If you are finding very few results, it may be an opportunity to broaden your topic temporarily and learn more about the subject area.

Need Help?

Librarians at the Brother Edmond Drouin Library can help you identify additional keywords, locate appropriate databases, and develop search strategies that improve your results.