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Help
  • HELP screens can be confusing if you don't understand the basic concepts and terms used in online searching.
  • However, now that you have been introduced to the basic search concepts and terms, you can utilize HELP to improve your skills in using computers to search for information.
  • In most cases, a HELP button is available from the initial screen, providing a general explanation of how the database works.

help button on a database home page)


  • Some databases provide help by giving search tips or examples of search commands directly on the search screen.  (Note that the example below has a "?Help" button, a "Search Guide" button, as well as a "TIPS" section at the bottom.

example of a search screen

  • Other databases provide point-of-use or "context sensitive" help.  At any point during the search process, the user can obtain very specific assistance with the particular search function currently being used. After entering the "help" command, the user is given an explanation of all the options available at this specific point in the search.  Access to further help is also provided.
help button icon
 In addition to online HELP you can always ask a librarian for assistance.
In some databases and search engines, "HELP" is labelled instead "Users Guide", "Tips", "Options" or similarly. Regardless, they all lead to the same sort of information.

 
Chapter 3, Page 25

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