Here are some of the most common reasons why you might zero or no results from a search:
 

Too much in one box:

• Instead of typing full sentences into a search box (for example: what is the impact of motivation on learning?) break your topic up into keywords (motivation, learning), and separate different concepts into different search boxes. 

• For help, take a look at our Searching Effectively resources for strategies.

Spelling:

• Our databases are very sensitive to spelling. Even one letter out of place can mess up your results.

Looking in the wrong place:

• Be sure to use a database that will cover your topic. 

• If you're unsure where to start, try looking at Databases A-Z. (Use the All Subjects drop-down menu to get a list of recommended databases for different subject areas.)

Too Complex:

• Sometimes research topics become very complex, with many variables or concepts. 

• Try searching for only one or two smaller pieces of your topic at a time until you've gathered enough material to support each part of your topic.  Then tie it all together in your paper.

A "gap" in the literature:

• Especially at the dissertation level, with complex and focused topics, you may find that there is no published material on your exact topic. 

• Our Defining A Search Strategy resources have strategies to help you search systematically to identify gaps in the literature. 

• Use our Database Research Log to help keep track of where and how you are searching and our Scholarly Research Log to keep track of what you've read.