2.3.2.3 The NOT operator


Identify and obtain information
	2.1 Define your search terms
	2.2 An example search strategy
	2.3 Search strategies
		2.3.1 Keyword or subject searching?
		2.3.2 Boolean operators
			AND operator
			OR operator
			NOT operator
		2.3.3 Mathematical operators
		2.3.4 Nesting
		2.3.5 Phrase searching
		2.3.6 Truncation and wildcards
		2.3.7 Prepare a search strategy
	2.4 Select an appropriate tool
	2.5 Keep up to date


	Glossary

The not operator ensures records that include the first term, but not the second term are found.

Use not with caution because you may inadvertently exclude useful material.

For example: (beverages not alcoholic) excludes any record containing the second term.