Once you have created a list of search terms, the next step is creating searches by mixing a variety of those terms from the table you have created. For instance, let's say you search want to search "concealed handguns" AND 2nd amendment." The term "AND" in your search is an excluder rather than an English conjunction. Specifically, AND is a part of a group of computer commands called Bollean logic named for mathematician George Boole. If "concealed weapons" articles are in the red circle on the left and all of the "2nd amendment" articles are the blue circle on the right, then your use of "AND" will retrieve the display the overlapping results (purple) on your monitor.
Be aware, however, that language can easily "kill" your search so remember to use the most unique terms as possible. As you mix and match your search terms, avoid "AND"-ing too many terms together as it could retrieve nothing. Keep track of your searches. As you begin the process, you will notice that some searches retrieve better results than others. You may need to return to those searches later. List the searches with the best or most promising searches here.
If searches are too large, use limiting features such as date, format, etc.You can usually add more options by using addtional boxe (with the AND operator).
If you find too few, do Author searches for articles you do have.Turn off all limits to expand your search, if you have too little. In HCU OneSearch, turn off the "LImit to Library Collection" to see what else is available. We may not have many of those items in an expanded search but you will have, at least, discovered the existence of potentially useful information. You could also try searching Google Scholar.
Be a word detective. Pay attention to terms used in subject headings, titles, and abstracts. You may see a term that you can include in your search that may be better than another one already used and that could lead to better results.