Users can search by 30 different operators. In addition to the usual Proximity Operators, Concept Operators combine search terms with the capacity to turn relevance on and off. Relational Operators search document fields for string searches and allow numeric and data comparisons. Evidence Operators conduct intelligent word searches with wildcards, homonyms, and synonyms, while four Score Operators allow researchers to change relevancy ranking. Natural Language Operators interpret text with a free-text query parser, searching for similar texts.
1. Basic Search
Searching automatically includes the All-Smart Search (a rules-based search).
Simply enter terms, or type in a more structured Boolean search.
2. Advanced Search
When searching in Advanced Search, users can select All - Smart Search. The All - Smart Search is the mode of searching on the screen unless users enter a Boolean search. To narrow this search, users either return to, or go to the Advanced Search screen that includes a variety of limiting options.
3. Search in the Browse Mode
WilsonWeb displays an alphabetical list with the term(s) users typed placed in the context of choices found in the Browse dropdown list. In the results screen, users click directly on the desired term or phrase to retrieve search results.
4. Searching from the Thesaurus
The Thesaurus is a controlled vocabulary list of subjects and related terms used to standardize the indexing in the database. Users can select and search for synonyms, related, and preferred terms.
5. Using Search History
The results screens report users' search(es) as Active Searches, with each search displayed in literal query syntax.
