The web gives us access to an overwhelming amount of information which requires careful thought when formulating a search strategy. Although it is wonderful to have so much information available, you need to be aware of issues and potential problems with finding information published on the web.
As a whole the web is a mass of unorganised information which isn't controlled by any one body. Anyone with access to the Internet can publish on the web so you need to know the tools and techniques to find and evaluate information.The main tools for finding information on the web are search engines and web directories. Search engines are software programs that locates documents (mostly websites and web pages) on the Internet for specified keywords or key phrases. Web directories are listings of websites compiled by humans.
Search engine or web directory - which one should I use?
- Use a search engine if you are looking for something very specific - usually through keyword searching;
- Use a web directory for a broad overview of what is available on a topic - similar to subject searching or browsing.
These tools are continually being developed all the time to offer new technologies and improved functions. So it is very important to keep up to date with the latest developments of your favourite tools to make full use of all the features on offer.
We assume you are familiar with the technologies used to navigate the web.
If you need to brush up on your internet/web knowledge and skills in this area - have a look at the listed resources for some background information before you move on to the next section on how to search effectively on the web.
Updated: September 2010
