KU Medical Library - PubMed vs. Embase

Both PubMed and Embase provide basic searches when you open them. You can just enter search terms as keywords, and you do not need to use Boolean operators (e.g., AND, OR, etc.). You can build a more complex search though if you want. In PubMed the advanced search is linked under the search box. In Embase the advanced search link is in the second/lower menu bar.

PubMed's homepage offers some unique links:

• Log in: This allows you to sign into a personal account. As PubMed is free, you can keep and access this account even after you leave KU.
• Single Citation Matcher: If you are looking for a specific article but only have a partial citation this tool can help you find your article.
• MeSH Database: If you need to build a search using MeSH terms you can start here.

In Embase, you will see some different features:

• Emtree hints: As you type your keywords, Embase will suggest Emtree terms: For example, if you type cancer Embase will suggest malignant neoplasm.
• Number of results: Also as you type your search terms you will see "Show X results" on the search button. This can help you expand or narrow your search as needed before you run your search.

Note that if you are just running a basic search with keywords (or using Booleans) you can copy and paste your search into the other database--it will work in both!

Click on the "?" below to learn more about each database's homepage interface.