Boolean
Operators
Boolean
operators are commands that most databases use
to enable users to search for multiple concepts
that form a complex topic. When you put a Boolean
operator into a database, the computer realizes
that it is being asked to do
something. There are three Boolean operators:
AND, OR, NOT.
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Move
your mouse over each of the three diagrams
below. |
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AND
narrows a search by retrieving the intersection
between topics.
Apples
AND oranges would only get those that
have both types of fruit.
NOT
narrows a search by excluding entire
categories of information.
Apples
NOT oranges would exclude things that
had oranges, even if they also had
apples.
OR
broadens a search by retrieving either
topic. OR is especially important
for grouping synonyms.
Apples
OR oranges would get anything that had
either type of fruit.
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