Basic Google Searching
1. In Google's search box, type your topic or key search terms
only.
If sentences or unnecessary words are entered, it could result
in a poor search.
only.
If sentences or unnecessary words are entered, it could result
in a poor search.
2. Review the results. If you don't see any results that look relevant, try a different set of
search terms. Review your topic and think of other terms or think of synonyms of your
topic and search terms. Also, check the bottom of the results page for Related
Searches. That list may have other search options.
search terms. Review your topic and think of other terms or think of synonyms of your
topic and search terms. Also, check the bottom of the results page for Related
Searches. That list may have other search options.
3. When reviewing the search results, look for key information that might reveal a more credible or relevant find.
So, the question becomes how do I know if the website I am looking at is credible? Here are three questions to ask when
determining website credibility.
A. Who wrote or owns the website?
B. When was the website last updated?
C. Are sources cited on the website?
4. To avoid having to take the time to evaluate sources so closely, use databases, ebooks or print materials. These materials have
been published and gone through an editorial process for accuracy. You should still evaluate and compare the information and
look for bias, but the sources should, in most cases, be credible.
So, the question becomes how do I know if the website I am looking at is credible? Here are three questions to ask when
determining website credibility.
A. Who wrote or owns the website?
B. When was the website last updated?
C. Are sources cited on the website?
4. To avoid having to take the time to evaluate sources so closely, use databases, ebooks or print materials. These materials have
been published and gone through an editorial process for accuracy. You should still evaluate and compare the information and
look for bias, but the sources should, in most cases, be credible.
Updated 12/15/2014