One of the most daunting tasks of any project - especially in the health sciences - is searching the literature. The Summa Medical Library is happy to provide resources to help you work successfully through your searches. In this guide, you will find tips for database selection, question formulation, search strategy, an explanation of those pesky Boolean operators and subject headings, citation management, and more. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to us via email.
Due to staffing levels, our librarians can only provide mediated, customized literature searches at the request of attendings, managers, and above; members of the Center for Clinical Inquiry; and programs with special arrangements with the Medical Library.
The terms searching and researching are commonly used interchangeably in everyday conversation. Often, these terms are used to reference the concept of searching - looking for existing information - rather than the act of conducting formal, original research. In casual situations, this works just fine thanks to context clues. But when you're working on a project, it's important to recognize that these are distinct processes with different goals and methods.
Take this common example: someone says they're "doing their own research" on a health topic. In most cases, they're not actually conducting original research - they aren't designing a study, collecting data, or publishing results. Instead, they're searching for existing biomedical research to educate themselves and better understand the issue. That's searching, not research.
Searching is the act of locating existing information. It typically involves using databases, search engines, or other tools to find published research, clinical guidelines, or background information.
Research, by contrast, is the systematic process of generating new biomedical knowledge and information through structured experimentation, data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
Undoubtedly, there is overlap between the concepts of search and research as both are ways of answering questions. The difference lies in their methods and output. Being clear about which process you're using helps define your goals and ensures you choose the right tools and strategies for your project. It also helps your librarian know how to best support you!
As you work through this guide, consider using this worksheet to help you complete your own search! The worksheet starts with a blank page and provides completed examples in CINAHL and PubMed.
