This paper aims to present an alternative and simple method to improve the filtering of search results so as to increase the efficiency of literature searches, particularly for individual researchers who have limited logistical resources. The method proposed here is scope restriction using an impact-based filter, made possible by the emergence of freely available citation databases in conjunction with new tools to access and process the data efficiently. Results from a simulated search are compared between a conventional date-ranged filtered search and an impact-based filtered search using Publish or Perish as the citation analysis software. The utility and practical implications of this approach are further discussed.