Saving Searches and Setting up AutoAlerts in OvidSP

You may find in the course of doing a search that you would like to save the search strategy or would like to be periodically updated on a topic. OvidSP’s Personal Accounts functionality allows you to do this. To create a personal account, open up an OvidSP database and click on the link for “Personal Account” in the top right corner of the screen.

1. This brings you to the Personal Account Login screen. Click on the link to Create a New Personal Account.

2. Fill out the Create Personal Account form and then click on the Create button.

3. After creating a personal account, you will be returned to the Personal Account login screen where you can login with the account name and password you just created. After logging in, click on the Main Search Page link at the top of the page to begin a search.

4. Create a search. To save it, click on the Save Search History button.

5. The Save Current Search screen will open. Name the search and from the Type drop down menu select either Temporary (saves the search for 24 hours), or Permanent (saves indefinitely).

6. If you select AutoAlert, you will be presented with a page of options. Enter the requested information or select the appropriate option. Once finished, click Save.

7. Saving the search will bring you back to the main search page. To view your saved searches click on the Saved Searches / Alerts link in the top right corner of the screen.

8. You may now perform several functions such as edit your search, run the search, delete a search, or copy a search.

If you would like assistance saving a search in OvidSP please contact the Sladen Library at 313-916-2550 or sladen@hfhs.org.