There are multiple reasons for searching the NIMH Data Archive (NDA), however, most searches are for one of two reasons. The first is because researchers submitting their research data to NDA need to identify Data Structures and Data Elements to use as is or with minor modification. This tutorial will focus on this type of search.

The second reason is researchers want to identify datasets that they can reanalyze using new analysis methods and/or combine with other dataset(s). NDA has a tutorial that focuses on that type of search.

There are 2 search tools on the NDA website, which differ substantially in their capabilities.  The first is on the NDA home page and the other is a series of related menu items grouped under the name NDA Query Tool, that can be accessed via some of the buttons under the “Get Data” pull-down list on the NDA homepage.  Your reasons for searching will influence which search tool you use, and the logic used in creating those searches.

This tutorial is primarily designed for new grantees, to show how to use these search tools effectively to find Data Structures and Data Elements for use in the data submission process. Since there are over 4,400 Data Structures and over 420,000 Data Elements in NDA, it is probable that existing structures can be used either as is or with minor modifications. The only reason to create a new Data Structure or Data Element in NDA is if there are no existing or closely matching structures that can be modified to meet your needs. 

Prior to searching NDA, familiarize yourself with the NDA Tutorials and Webinars on the NIMH YouTube channel. They include a lot of information and step-by-step instructions to help you search NDA, as well as preparing to upload your data.

In the material below there is a brief introduction to each of the two search engines, especially for those who want to explore the engines’ capabilities on their own. The second part is a more detailed examination of how to search NDA to find Data Structures and Data Elements to populate your Data Expected List.  Since it is not possible to cover every aspect, this tutorial will concentrate on the logic and strategies for the various types of searches and filters.