+s

Definition

+s is a search connector used in Boolean searching that specifies the inclusion of a particular term in the search results. By placing a plus sign before a term, it signals that this term must be present in every document retrieved. This operator is crucial for narrowing down searches and ensuring that essential keywords are not overlooked.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. +s ensures that the specified term is included in all search results, making searches more precise.
2. Using +s can help reduce irrelevant results by filtering out documents that do not contain the required term.
3. The +s operator is often used in conjunction with other Boolean operators to create complex search queries.
4. In many databases and search engines, if a term is prefixed with +s but does not appear in any document, no results will be returned.
5. Applying +s is particularly helpful in legal research where specific terms need to be included for accurate case law retrieval.

Review Questions

• How does the use of +s enhance the effectiveness of Boolean searching?
  • +s enhances the effectiveness of Boolean searching by explicitly requiring the inclusion of a specific term in every document returned by the search. This operator reduces ambiguity and ensures that the search results are focused on the essential keywords needed for research. By using +s, researchers can fine-tune their searches and retrieve more relevant information that directly pertains to their inquiries.
• What might happen if you use +s incorrectly in a search query?
  • Using +s incorrectly can lead to unsatisfactory search results, such as an empty result set if none of the documents contain the required term. This misstep can waste time and hinder research progress, as important information may be overlooked. It’s vital to understand when and how to apply +s properly within the context of broader search strategies to avoid missing out on relevant content.
• Evaluate the role of +s in legal research, particularly regarding specificity and relevance in retrieving case law.
  • +s plays a critical role in legal research by ensuring that searches return documents containing necessary legal terms, thus enhancing specificity and relevance. Legal professionals rely on precise language and terminology, making +s invaluable when searching for case law or statutes where certain phrases must appear. Its use allows researchers to focus on relevant cases, minimizing extraneous information and ensuring that they address specific legal questions effectively.

Related terms

Boolean Operators: Symbols or words (such as AND, OR, NOT) that are used to combine or exclude keywords in a search to produce more relevant results.

Search Query: A specific phrase or set of terms entered into a search engine or database to retrieve relevant information.

Keyword: A significant word or phrase that captures the essence of the content being searched and is used in formulating search queries.