We live in the age where hardly a day goes by where we’re not Googling a search term for work or even just checking to see what restaurants are nearby.
As our previous article on Google search algorithms shows, there are over 150 million active websites on the internet. Fortunately, Google’s algorithm does the legwork when searching web pages that contain the keywords you need, then assigns a ranking per page based on relevancy.
New algorithms are being developed on a daily basis. Online, there are more than half a million users learning algorithms on Udemy — covering topics from algorithms in JavaScript, to algorithms in Python. Indeed, knowing how to use these formulas is a skill worth having. And while it all sounds very complex, the simplest place you can start is by knowing how to refine your searches.
With the formula already readily available, all that’s left is for you to use the right strategies so you can yield the most meaningful answers.
Here are some tips to get you started.
Advanced searches
Even just using the advanced search filters puts you ahead of the game. These filters can be found under the “Advanced search” section of the Settings tab, which you’ll be able to find on the search homepage. Advanced searches allow you to filter results by region, language, and date, as well as allowing you to refine your keywords further.
Phrase your search items properly
Like we mentioned, Google’s algorithm works by searching keywords and phrases, so the key to better results often lies in your phrasing. Rather than searching for “what do I do if I have cramp,” for example, you might want to enter “cramp relief” or “cramp remedies.” The latter suggestions are typical phrases you’ll find on websites, which makes it easier for Google to pick up.
Use Boolean searches
As a way to help Google look through similar keywords, an article on Lifewire recommends using Boolean searches. Essentially, this type of search focuses on the terms “AND” and “OR”. “AND” tells Google that you want results with all the keywords, while “OR” can be used when you’re searching for something that has a similar keyword (for example: ‘primal’ and ‘paleo’ diets). Moreover, it’s important to use capital letters when typing the conjunctions. If you type them in lower case, Google will assume that these words are just part of your search term.
Search within a website
Before you conduct a search, you may already have an idea of websites whose information you trust. You can cue Google to check for particular websites by using the “site:[website name]” syntax function in the search box. Searching for “site:cnn.com” alerts Google to do an internal search on CNN, so you can do a more thorough search for the keywords you need.
Reverse image search through your phone
You’ve probably already heard of reverse image searches, as it’s a useful way to get information on a photo or a higher resolution alternative. PC Mag notes that this can be done even on your phone, simply by accessing the desktop version of Google on your phone’s web browser. Those who have the Chrome app on their phone can just press and hold an image until a menu appears with the “Search Google for This Image” option.
Author Bio
Jonathan Hearth is a technology writer who’s obsessed with the world-changing potential of current e-learning and distance education platforms. His hobbies include stalking the social media accounts of Google execs, trying to predict the next big disruptive tech trend by following news and reviews, and finding new toys for Scott, his beloved 6-year-old Siamese cat.