While some databases are actual collections of pure full-text content, others contain a mix of citations to articles or other materials AND full-text, while others contain pure citations.
Those databases containing just citations to the materials are called indexes. Index/​citation databases help you discover and identify useful articles for your topic... but then you still have to actually find the materials.
Knowing which type of database you're using helps you know what to expect in terms of finding full text. It will also influence your search techniques.
Full-Text Databases |
Index-Only Databases |
Mixed Databases |
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Do not limit yourself to full-text databases!