Searching for information on the Web seems like the answer to every research assignment. Yet there are some lurking pitfalls for the unaware student.

Almost anyone can build a Web site, dealing with what ever subject they wish. No one is checking their knowledge of the subject or even if the information they post is correct. Web sites are impermanent and may be "here today and gone tomorrow." With a few basic skills and some common sense guidelines, you should be able to locate information you need and be able to differentiate between legitimate and questionable sources.

Search Engines

There are over 14,000 general and specific search engines and subject directories. The three types most often used by both the novice and the experienced are single search engines such as AltaVista, metasearch engines (which search multiple databases) such as Dogpile, and subject directories (a single database of URLs selected and arranged by humans in broad categories) such as Yahoo.

Here are the search engines and directories most often recommended by The Library staff:

Although not a specialized search engine, the Search Engine Showdown Web site is very useful for identifying popular and/or new major search engines and for providing information on the search features of those search engines.

Search Tactics & Tips

Here a a few general tips for a successful search: 

1. Be specific. Use "dachshund" instead of "dog."
2. Use synonyms. In addition to "job," use "employment" or "business."
3. Match your search to an appropriate search engine. If you are looking for popular, official information (i.e. a government site), try a directory. If you are looking for obscure information, try a metasearch engine.
4. If the search engine allows you to do so, use Boolean logic.
5. Read the instructions. Users rarely take advantage of the advance search, search tips or help functions on a search engine's home page.

What to do if you are unable to find the information you need. 

1. Re-arrange the order of the search terms you are using. Many search engines place greater emphasis on the first word of a request.
2. Be certain you are capitalizing conjunctions (such as "and," "or" and "not"), if you are using Boolean logic.
3. Check your spelling.
4. Find more synonyms.
5. Contact a librarian and ask for help.

Recommended Sites

We believe the single best Web site for students on the Web is www.students.gov.

Students.gov is a student gateway to information and services from the United States government, bringing together a variety of information and services. Through this site you can find the right college, get information about and apply for federal student aid, learn about other educational benefits, and much more.