How to Search in Biomedical Databases

Before you start searching, keep in mind . . .

Save your search in a document, citation management software (Zotero, Endnote, Refworks, etc.), and/or within the database (MyNCBI)

• By saving your search, your strategy will be reproducible for another time and properly documented.

• Explore options and instruction for citation management here, and find tips on how to export results.

• To save searches in PubMed, create an NCBI account by clicking on the sign in to NCBI link in the upper-right corner of the screen (sign up for a My NCBI account by clicking here). 

Quick Run-through on Creating a My NCBI Account

• How to access My NCBI Step 1: Select "Log in" link in upper right-hand corner (as pictured)

• How to access My NCBI Step 2: In the page that opens, select "NCBI Account" from the list of options (as pictured)

• How to access My MCBI Step 3: enter (or create) login credentials and explore the landing page (as pictured in the following screenshot). This page will allow you to see past searches, review search updates, and manage your publications in the "My Bibliography" section. 

• Pro Tip: Logging in to your My NCBI account at the beginning of a search is an excellent way to keep track of your search as you proceed through the following steps. It is also convenient for setting up an alert for your search at the very end.