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SciFinderN

The primary database for searching the chemical literature.

Searching by Research Topic

  • Use natural language. SciFinder uses prepositions (such as of, in, for, with, etc.) to parse your search phrase into concepts.
             Example: synthesis of ketones with palladium
     
  • Avoid long, complex phrases. Keep your query to 2-4 concepts. It is better to retrieve a large set of results first, then use the Analyze or Refine options to narrow the results.
     
  • Although SciFinder automatically looks for synonyms, it sometimes misses useful terms. Include synonyms in your query by enclosing them in parentheses
             Example: effects of dehp in infants (children, fetus)
     
  • Avoid using complex chemical names in research topic searches. Search by structure drawing under Explore > Substances.

Substance Searching Tips

  • Substance Identifier works best with CAS Registry Numbers and simple chemical names. For more complex names, consider searching by Chemical Structure.
     
  • To locate well-known substances in a large list of results, try sorting by Number of References.
     
  • An easy way to draw complex structures is to import structures using CAS Registry Numbers, SMILES, or InChI. Look for  in the drawing editor.
     
  • Take a look at the online Help file within SciFinder, the CAS Training pages,  or the University of Texas Libraries' Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.

Searching for Reactions

  • Narrow results by using tools to lock structures, map atoms, limit solvents, etc.

  • Be sure to search both SciFinder and Reaxys, which has better coverage before 1984.

SciFinder Support & Training