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Searching Ovid: Basic Search

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
    (for this example we will be using .)
  2. Click on Basic Search.
    Ovid - Basic Search link