Internet Tools
Searching the Internet
The Internet contains a vast amount of information. Locating the information you are interested in may seem difficult. For information on how to conduct searches more efficiently and effectively, please refer to the McIntyre Library's Selecting & Using Internet Search Tools. This document will show you how to use your web browser to begin searching and covers the following topics:
Using Your Browser's Search Tool
Both Internet Explorer and Netscape offer a search tool on the main toolbar located at the top of the browser window. Currently both use Google, either directly or indirectly, as their search engine. In each case, a link to tips and how-to's for tailoring your search is available. It is recommended that you read these tips if your search results are not satisfactory to you.
-
To access the search tool, on the toolbar, click SEARCH
HINT: The icon is denoted with a magnifying glass. -
In the text box provided, type the keyword(s)
-
Press [Enter]
Searching within a Web Page
There will be times when, although you think you have found a website about your topic, you are looking for specific terms or names to be discussed. You can search for such items in a particular web page.
Internet Explorer 6
-
From the Edit menu, select Find (on This Page)...
OR
Press [Ctrl]+[F]
The Find dialog box appears.
-
In the Find what text box, type the word(s) you would like to search for
-
To find only the exact word(s) searched for, select Match whole word only
-
To make your search case sensitive, select Match case
-
OPTIONAL: To alter the direction of your search, in the Direction section, select Up or Down
-
Click FIND NEXT
If the word(s) is in the document, the first instance of the word will be highlighted on the screen.
If the word(s) is not found a dialog box appears indicating the document has been searched- Click OK
-
To search for the next instance of word(s), click FIND NEXT
-
When complete, click CANCEL
Netscape 7
-
From the Edit menu, select Find in This Page...
The Find in This Page dialog box appears.
-
In the Find text text box, type the keyword(s)
-
To make your search case sensitive, select Match upper/lower case
-
To alter the direction of your search, select Search backwards
NOTE: The default is to search forward from the starting point. -
Click FIND
If the word(s) is in the document, the first instance of the word will be highlighted on the screen.
If the word(s) is not found a dialog box appears indicating the document has been searched- Click OK
-
To search for the next instance of word(s), click FIND again
-
When complete, click CANCEL
Tips for Searching
-
Before searching, read the suggestions for the particular search engine you have chosen. They can save you time and produce more tailored results.
-
Analyze the value of the sources you find based on the criteria set forth on the Ten Cs for Evaluating Internet Sources.
-
When your search locates a site that you find useful, you may want to set it as a Bookmark or Favorite so that you can return to it more easily.
-
Popular sites, especially ones cited in pick lists or journals, may be busy,especially at peak use times. Try off-peak times for better and quicker results.
