PubMed

PubMed is a free resource supporting the search and retrieval of biomedical and life sciences literature.

Run a Query

Queries can be entered using either:

These interfaces are functionally equivalent for the purposes of search-query. We recommend users always copy and store the full query string from either interface.

Tip

Include field tags explicitly in the search_string. Leave the general_field empty.

Store a Query

When storing a PubMed query in a .json file or as a string:

  • Use the content of the Query box or Search details section as the search_string.

  • Leave the general_field empty.

List Query Format

PubMed allows users to combine previous searches using the search history panel. These list-based queries can reference earlier searches using numbered identifiers (e.g., #1 OR #2). In the advanced search interface, such combinations can also be created via the “Add” button. List queries are supported by search-query parsers.

List queries should be formatted as follows:

{
    "search_string": "1. dHealth[ti] OR telemedicine[ti]\n2. activity[ti] OR exercise[ti]\n3. #1 AND #2",
    "general_field": ""
}

Best Practices and Recommendations

The advanced PubMed interface offers a dropdown for search fields such as [Title/Abstract], [Author], etc. When using this feature:

  • If you apply the same field to the entire query, it is safe to store this value in the general_field.

  • If the query contains multiple search fields, search-query will treat each term individually, and leaving `general_field` empty is preferred.

Note

PubMed performs automatic term mapping when queries are entered in the basic or advanced search boxes. For instance, a search for eHealth will also match related terms such as telemedicine and electronic health. This behavior should be kept in mind when reviewing search results or translating queries to other platforms, as the expanded concepts may not always be explicit in the query string.

Resources