This module discussed a variety of techniques, some involving the search query and some outside of the query, that can limit or expand the scope of a search.
You probably will not use every technique in every search; many searches will not require such a combination. However, the more you can focus a search on only the information you want, the fewer results you have to look through
and the ones you receive are more likely to be the ones you need.
Now that you have finished this module, you should be able to:
- Explain how different Search Engines interpret simple search queries
- Use Boolean operators in search queries
- Use advanced searching techniques to narrow or widen the search scope
- List other restrictions you can put on search results
- Find out what searches and queries a search site supports
- Explain how Search Engine results are ranked
This module introduced you to the following new terms:
- Boolean operator
- Concept searching
- Grouping
- Natural language search query
- Phrase searching
- Proximity operator
- Relevancy ranking
- Stop words
- Wildcard
The next module will discuss some additional searching topics, including searching resources on the Web, international search services, and searching Newsgroups.
