Truncation is a searching technique used in databases in which a word ending is replaced by a symbol. This enables different forms of a word to searched for simultaneously, and will increase the number of search results found.

For example, laugh* will search for: 

  • laugh
  • laughter
  • laughing etc.

Different databases use different truncation symbols. Frequently used truncation symbols include the asterisk (*), a question mark (?) or a dollar sign ($). Some may also use an exclamation mark (!).

You should note that placing the truncation symbol in a word too soon might be counterproductive.

For example, "hum*" will search for 'humour', but it will also retrieve unrelated terms like:

  • human
  • humbug
  • humerus
  • hummus etc.

In such cases, you might consider using wildcards, if the database supports this. This is when characters within the word other than at the end can be substituted.

In the above example, if you wanted to search for both 'humour' and 'humor' (American spelling), you might consider using the search term "humo?r".

Note: Always check your database's help screens or Search Tips for information on whether they support wildcards and truncation, what symbols they use, and how to use them.

Credo Research Skills: Module 3 Searching for Information covers the basics of searching for information, including choosing the right source, identifying keywords, and employing search techniques.

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