Database

In class we discussed what a database is, and looked into the true meaning of the word database. We used candy to demonstrate how a database sorts information. I found it interesting and important on some of the confusions of a database. It didn't occur to me before the importance of clarity in a database. If your search is missing words or isn't precise, the results of your research my be skewed. As we discussed in class, it is vital that you be as specific as possible without using generic words for your search. When generic words are used, your search will be very broad and in most cases insufficient. So it is important that you enter specific words and also multiple words to narrow your search. This search strategy is by far the most effective. Although you may have fewer results, if you use specific words your results will be narrowed down to only those that will be beneficial. Using this strategy forces you to be creative in that you have to be very clear and descriptive when soring a database and using this strategy. As we saw with the candy, saying chocolate "or" almonds, is very different from saying chocolate "and" almonds. You get different results with each of these phrases, but when you enter the word "and" in between what you are searching, you will get less results that tend to be more precise and accurate.