Cross-searching is the ability to search more than one index at the same time. Some companies like ProQuest, EBSCO and OVID support cross-searching.
Strengths: You can select a tailored subset of databases for your research.
Good for inter-disciplinary topics.
Saves time.
Limitations: Thesauri and other advanced features are database specific, and won't function effectively in cross-searching.
How to select databases for cross-searching in selected databases:
ProQuest: Select Searching "x databases" at the top of the search screen.
EBSCO: Select "Choose Databases" on the third row from the top of the search screen.
OVID: Select Resource Selected: "Change"
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