1. Clarify the search question

2. Break into 'concepts'

3. Translate into MESH

4. Translate into synonyms

5. Combine with boolean

6. Refine your lit. search

7. Final tips

Step One Phrase your search idea as a manageable search question.

Step Two Identify the important concepts in your search question.

Step Three Search for relevant MESH headings

Step Four  Think of alternative synonyms to describe your search concepts. Carry out a search on these terms, remembering to use the truncation and wild card functions, where appropriate.

Step Five  Combine the concepts using boolean operators.

Step Six Apply limits and refine your search strategy, as necessary

Step Seven Save your search strategy and results