| Abstract | A summary of a study that describes its most important aspects, including major results and conclusions.
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| Boolean operators | Search expressions used independently or in combination to facilitate database searching (e.g., and, or, not).
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| Descriptors | Terms used to locate sources during a computer search of the literature.
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| General reference | Source that researchers use to identify more specific references (e.g., indexes, abstracts).
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| Index | A grouping together of similar information resources.
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| Literature review | The systematic identification, location, and analysis of documents containing information related to a research problem.
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| Primary source | Firsthand information such as the testimony of an eyewitness, an original document, a relic, or a description of a study written by the person who conducted it.
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| Search engine | A comprehensive computer system for locating references to specific topics.
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| Search terms | see descriptors.
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| Secondary source | Secondhand information, such as a description of historical events by someone not present when the event occurred.
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| Web browser | A computer program providing access to the World Wide Web.
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| World Wide Web | An Internet reservoir of information used in searching literature.
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