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The following search
techniques will be helpful when trying to find information on the Web.
- Choose
good keywords and phrases.
You must search using the same words that appear on the page. Brainstorming
before you start searching will generate a good list of keywords
and phrases. Remember to think of alternate spellings and abbreviations
for your topic.
- Be
specific.
You can create more targeted searches if you use phrases. Most search
engines require that you put quotes around a phrase. Many search
engines are also case sensitive.
- Try
different searches.
Search engines use sophisticated equations to calculate the number
of times your search terms appear on a page. Pages that seem to
best match your search request are listed first. If the first 30
sites are not relevant, try a different search. If you are not satisfied
after a few searches, try a different search engine.
- Use
advanced search techniques.
Many search engines have advanced search capabilities such as limiting
by language or type of information. Read the help screens to see
which special features are available in your favorite search engine.
- Browse
a subject list.
Locate a search engine that organizes pages by subject to find useful
sites. Start with a general category and choose increasingly more
specific sub-categories. The appropriate subject category will give
you a list of pages on your topic available in that search engine.
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