Search: Hints and Tips:
Getting more out of Google
We all go to Google because we want to find out something. We have a question that needs answering. How can we use search to find things more effectively?
First of all, we can start by learning how to use Google properly. In addition to searching for keyword phrases, Google has the ability to understand a range of different commands.
1. For example, if you enter your search in inverted commas (as in “apple pie”), Google will only return results that match the phrase exactly. This can be very useful if you are looking for specific information, for example the search time:
“Bob Dylan’s Blood on the Tracks”
– will yield highly relevant results.
2. Google will allow you to use 32 words in each search query. It’s difficult to imagine a situation when you would need to use them all – but remember that not all searches have to be short.
3. Google has a num-range operator which can be very useful. For example if you type into the search bar 2000..2002 – you will get results from between the years 2000, 2001 and 2002.
4. If you want to use Google as a dictionary, you can type the word “define” followed by a colon and the word that you wish to explore. So, for example, you could write: “define:search” and you will be given a list of definitions for the word search.
5. You can use Google to find synonyms of different words. For example if you would like to search in the lexical field of clothes you just have to use the symbol ~clothes and you will also get results from the words clothing, fashion, store and so on.
6. For some basic searches Google gives you immediate results. Try the following keyword searches to see what is possible:
• Population of Germany/ How many kilometers in a mile?/ Einstein birthday
Using different search engines for different purposes
These are some basic search tips, but remember that there are many different search engines and many different ways of collecting news. Google may be the most powerful and the most popular, but does it return the best results for you? You can always use location-specific or demographically targeted search engines. There are too many different ones to list here, but do some research – it may well be worthwhile.
In the meantime, remember to stay safe whenever you are online. Whatever you are searching for, be aware that some websites could be malicious and others might be designed to steal your personal information.
One of the safest packages available is McAfee’s Total Protection. It secures your identity, blocks any spyware and protects all members of your family when you are online. With the Internet it always pays to be safe.