1. Google and Google Scholar
Google and Google Scholar use different search algorithms and will produce different, but overlapping, results. Repeat your search in both to maximise retrieval.
Both products support advanced searching: use the crib sheet overleaf, and online help: choose ‘advanced search’ option to right of search box, then ‘advanced search tips’ at top right
Google Scholar can retrieve items in password-protected or firewalled areas; full text will be accessible only if University subscribes to that content
Citation data given in Google Scholar may differ from that in Web of Science (on which impact factors are based)
Individual references can be downloaded to reference management software from Google Scholar. For large numbers, quicker to repeat search in a database that allows creation of result sets and export the set.
No search engine will find ‘everything’ relevant to your search. Be prepared to use many sources if you need to search exhaustively.
Remember not all journals are on the web; web searching alone will not be comprehensive
All databases subscribed to by the University are listed in and accessible through OxLip (
Subject librarians are happy to assist with searching problems; check contact details on
Slides for this WISER session can be downloaded/printed from
May 2007