Locating Internet
Resources Search Strategy
- Select the right search tool. The Internet offers many
search tools. However, these tools, as well as the databases they search, vary
greatly. Only a few cover the Internet exhaustively in terms of sites covered
and depth of indexing. You will not find what you need if you are looking in
the wrong place. The guide on the web page connection above should help you
select those tools most appropriate to your information needs.
- Read the search tool’s directions. If you have
not previously used the resource, look at the instructions. What is the scope
and source of the data? How does the search engine say it works? What tools are
available to help you formulate your search? Remember, search tools change
features frequently so check the documentation on a regular basis.
- Construct your search. Keep your search clear, simple,
and specific. Avoid commonly used terms such as the, of, Mr., html. Use the
strengths of the search tool. These may include: Boolean operators (and, or,
not) Proximity operators (near) Phrase searching Truncation Field limiting
- Check your results for satisfactory level of detail and
accuracy. Do not expect to get your search perfect the first time. Examine
your results to help you refine your search. Not all sites are equally valuable
or equally reliable. Think critically about the content of the information.
- Replicate your search across other search services. No
single search should be considered sufficient. Even if you have found what you
are looking for, it may not be the most accurate or the most current.
Searching Tips
- Use Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) files to find information
from experts on a topic.
- Check Internet newsgroup articles and mailing lists to
locate others talking about your topic.
- Be aware of spelling variations (e.g. color, colour).
- Good sites will often lead you to other sites relevant to
your topic.
- Ask information professionals for assistance.
- Use your web browser’s FIND command to locate terms
within a document
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