Step 2: Search Terms
Once you've decided where to search, think about the main topics or concepts of your protocol for search terms. Here are some typical things to use:
- species
- organ systems
- specific condition, disease, hormones, treatment...
- reduction, refinement, replacement. In general, the word alternative won't return useful information because it is out of context. These words are more effective.
- synonyms for each term, for example
- monitor or evaluate or supervise
- technique or method or procedure
- housing or facility or caging
Next, you'll search using these terms. Web of Science, CAB Abstracts and PubMed are all recommended. You can find tips on searching each database next.