Electronic databases have grown tremendously in both number and popularity since their development during the 1960s. Access to electronic databases in academic libraries was originally offered primarily through mediated search services by trained librarians; however, the advent of CD-ROM and end-user interfaces for online databases has shifted the emphasis from mediated to end-user searching. Unfortunately, research studies have indicated that many end-users do not understand basic search concepts and, consequently, do not employ effective search strategies when using these databases. Learning basic database design and effective search strategies allows end-users to take the often neglected first steps to successful electronic searching. The paper is a guide to effectively searching electronic databases, and includes: a history, definition, and discussion of types of electronic databases; selecting an appropriate database in which to conduct a search; planning the search strategy, including selecting search terms and combining terms; refining the search; expanding the results; problem solving techniques; and evaluating search results to determine the effectiveness of the search. (Contains 12 references.) (Author/SWC)