How do we use search engines effectively? It may seem like you can search almost anything and it will give you an answer, but there are also techniques to get the best answers fitted for your questions or topics. Here are some tips and tricks on how to effectively use your search engine and get the best answers.
Use specific words.
The first and most simple tip to narrow your search in search engines is to use specific words. Enter specific words that you would like to see in an article or a web entry – the more specific and more words, the better the results will be. Avoid using common words and their synonyms.
Use ” ” when searching for a quote.
When you are searching for a quote or “who said it” items, be sure to add in those quotation marks to specify your search down to the actual quote. In most cases, the answer will be shown on the first few results giving you the convenience of knowing the answer right away.
Avoid using common words.
Common and regular words used for searches will tend to return broad answers. Common words can be found in numerous web entries as opposed to specific words.
When you search using regular words, this will take more of your time since you will need to check each answer if they are what you are looking for. You can avoid this and narrow your search on the first try by using specific words or phrases.
Follow capitalization and abbreviation.
To help narrow down the results and give you specific answers, you should follow capitalization on words you search for. Also, use the proper abbreviations and the periods included in it in your search engine entries. This will make the search precise and focused on the words or abbreviations in your queries.
Utilize the auto-complete feature.
When you key in words to the search bar of your search engines, it will prompt you with an auto-complete set of most commonly searched ideas and web entries on the internet. It is ideal to utilize this feature if you are searching for a trending or popular topic on the web.
This is also helpful when you are unsure yet of the specific words to search for. You can key in a few words and allow the search engine to complete the idea for you.
Check the first two pages.
To save time in doing your research and to ensure that you are not going off-topic when checking the results of your searches, limit your research to only the first two pages of the result. The first two pages are usually the most specified results.
Search engines have been a lifesaver for many of us – or at least a situation saver. Many of us have learned to depend on search engines to help us with school, work, and other personal needs. From looking for the meaning of a word, to ask for the recipe of a dish, search engines have, in one way or another helped us.
