Week 7

Boolean logic is a research strategy that employs the use of “and”, “or”, and “not” in combination with search terms. For example, if one is conducting research on antique furniture meant for sitting, perhaps to analyze the 16^th Century family’s desire for comfort and stylish decor, their Boolean search might look like this:

Antique sofas and antique loveseats

Antique chairs not antique tables

Antique stools or antique seats

This method of searching is supposed to be helpful because it filters through what the researcher does not need; by using “and”, “or”, and “not”, the researcher is able to expand or taper their search, and thus their search results.

I have used Boolean logic both successfully and unsuccessfully. Depending on what I am searching for, the filters are either a great help, or cause me to miss important resources. However, from this I’ve learned to use a variety of combinations, and then no combinations at all, to ensure I don’t miss anything important.

All in all, I believe Boolean logic is efficient and effective. In the past, it’s awarded me with some great resources in practically no time, and I will continue to use it in the future.