What is a search filter?

A search filter is a defined search strategy designed to find certain types of articles in a particular database. Broadly, filters are one of two types: methodological or subject-based.

Methodological filters

Method filters target certain published studies which use certain designs, for example, randomised controlled trials or systematic reviews. The most common examples of these can be seen on PubMed Clinical Queries, where the options you choose will trigger PubMed to use filters in the search it runs. Other examples can be found at the InterTasc Search Filter Resource website.

Subject filters

Subject filters are far less common and target a particular subject field. The palliative care filter was developed to help people find relevant palliative care articles in PubMed. CareSearch has also created a heart failure filter for PubMed.

Why would I use a filter rather than write my own search?

Neither filters nor individual searches are perfect, but filters are pre-tested for their performance, and usually involve experts and a rigorous methodology to ensure performance is maximised. They represent a quick and efficient way to search for certain information.

Finding out more

InterTasc Search Filter Resource

Related CareSearch pages

Background on the Palliative Care Filter

This page was created on 30 April 2008
Last updated 26 October 2010