Introduction

The key to a good literature search is planning. To undertake a really effective search you need to understand exactly what it is you want to get out of it, even before you sit down at a computer. There are two things you need to know before you can begin your search:

1. What are you searching for?
2. Where are you most likely to find this information?

The answers to these two questions make up your Search Strategy.

A Literature Search Worksheet that can be used to develop a search strategy can be found in the resources box.

Access to an extensive list of resources including full text journals and on-line databases is free to all SA Health staff through the library. You will need to register for a library username and password to access these resources, but once you have these you may access resources from work or home.

Assistance and advice

This guide is designed to assist you with conducting your own literature search. If you would like assistance with constructing a search, would like your search reviewed by a librarian, or would like a literature search conducted on your behalf, please use our literature search service.