Searching Ovid: Basic Search

• Basic Search in the Ovid databases is different from Basic Search options in other databases, as it uses a complex algorithm to interpret search terms intelligently
• The Basic Search functionality in the Ovid databases can be a useful addition or starting point to any search.
• Use Basic Search to scope out the literature on a topic, determine which Ovid databases to search, identify useful keywords and subject headings, and ensure you haven’t missed anything in your Advanced Search.
• This guide will help you to use Basic Search effectively and efficiently.

Getting Started

1. To get to Basic Search, open your chosen Ovid database from our databases page
   • UOW databases page
     University of Otago Wellington staff and students
   •  
   • CCDHB databases page
     Capital & Coast District Health Board staff
   
   (for this example we will be using Medline
   • UOW databases page (Medline)
     University of Otago Wellington staff and students
   •  
   • CCDHB databases page (Medline)
     Capital & Coast District Health Board staff
   .)
2. Click on Basic Search.