Web Search

Searching the Web

The World Wide Web consists of billions of Web pages and thousands of search tools. As such, the WWW can often be a frustrating research tool. Knowing how to select the proper search tool will save valuable time and help you retrieve more useful results.

Before you start searching the Web, take the time to read the following web pages written by Laura B. Cohen (retired academic librarian from the University of Albany, State University of New York) for some helpful tips: Understanding the World Wide Web, How to Choose a Search Tool, Boolean Searching on the Internet, Basic Search Techniques, and Best Bet Search Tips.

Use the information on the following pages to help you become an effective Web searcher.

Recommended Search Tools	Learn about and find links to the search tools that we recommend: Web Directories, Search Engines, Meta-Search Engines, Specialized and Subject-Specific Search Engines, Multimedia Search Engines, News Search Engines, Invisible Web Search Tools.
Search Tutorials, Guides and Tips	Check out these sites, if you want to improve or refine your Web search skills.
Evaluate what you find	All Websites are not created equal. Learn how to assess the information that you have found.

Remember to ask the LRC staff for assistance.