TRUNCATION is a useful computer tool that permits you to retrieve various words from one word stem by placing a symbol after the stem. The KCVL system uses a either a ? or * for its truncation symbol.
Consider truncation as a time saving device. Using truncation saves the typing of all possible words which might be generated from one stem. It may even give you some variations of the stem which you did not know. In other words, truncation allows the computer to do the work of typing and thinking for you. Remember: The KCVL system uses either a ? or * for its truncation symbol Other databases may use$ or #. Check the database HELP screen to determine which symbol is preferred by the database you are using. You may also call the KCVL help desk for guidance if you are having a problem. Remember to use the longest word stem possible to avoid false hits. For example, if you were looking for articles on children and typed in chil?, you would retrieve not only child, children, and childhood, but also chili, chills and Chillicothe. Note the use of truncation throughout the examples of this unit.
These examples of searching with truncation use the question mark as the truncation symbol. Again, this symbol may change depending on which system or database you are using. control? retrieves control, controls, controlling, etc. gun? retrieves gun, guns, gunsmoke, etc.