How to Do Research

Searching the Web is both similar and dissimilar to other information resources. First, ask yourself: Why the Web? Why you are using the Web rather than some other information source. Is it better? …or more appropriate? Once you have determined that the Web is an appropriate choice, consider the following steps:

	Analyze your topic
	Choose your keywords & synonyms
	Develop a search strategy
	Select your search tool
	Test your search statement
	Narrow your search…or
	Expand your search
	If dissatisfied, try additional search engines, metasearch engines, or subject directories.

The World Wide Web is "indexed" through the use of automated programs-sometimes referred to as "spiders," "robots," and "crawlers." These programs probe the Web, indexing pages. They enable you to search the contents of the Web through the use of a variety of search tools. Yet no one search tool will find everything, and no one search tool is the best for every purpose-since each search engine indexes different elements of a Web page, yielding different results.

Consider the following recommendations:

RECOMMENDATIONS:

	Decide whether a search engine or a subject directory is your best strategy. The more specific the information you need, the more likely you will want to use a search engine.
	If you choose to use a search engine, be as specific as possible. The sheer volume of information on the Web can be overwhelming.
	Try more than one search engine, especially if you are not pleased with your results.
	Use Boolean operators and as many keywords as possible to narrow your search.
	Searching for an image? Go to the Alta Vista search engine and look for the images label. Click on it and you will see a box where you can enter your request. When you get your results, click on any of the small images to see an enlargement.
	Both major browsers, Netscape and Microsoft Internet Explorer, provide a direct link (via the Search icon) to a selection of search engines.
	Consult the HELP screens and read the "tips" files provided by most engines.

Unit 4: Searching the Web: 2 of 4

Why the Web? | How to Search the Web! | Search Tools | How to Cite Web Sources

(alternative text navigation)

Last updated: Tuesday, 20-Aug-2002 17:06:24 EDT

.