How to use Google

Yes, you read that correctly. You need to learn how to search with Google!

We have all used Google to search for information, and been shown a list of millions of results. How do you know if those 'hits' (search results) are actually answers to the question you asked?? Often, when presented with thousands of results, we just click or read the first link because we don't have time to read through 20 pages of results!

Internet searching is a valuable skill that must be practiced, just like spelling, solving a math problem, or writing a paragraph. This activity will be the first step in developing those skills.

Step 1- "How do you ask a question?"

The first mistake EVERYONE makes is typing an actual question into the search window. For Example: "How far is New Jersey?" Unfortunately, asking actual questions will almost always complicate things!

The Rules are:

KEEP IT SIMPLE
1. As Google itself suggests, the best method is to start with something simple then gradually get more complicated.
  1. First try: job interviews
  2. Second try: prepare for job interviews
  3. Third try: how to prepare for a job interview
ADD RELEVANT / IMPORTANT WORDS
THINK about what you are asking before you ask it.

Step 2- Learn some tricks!

1. Use quotes to search for an exact phrase
- This one’s a well-known, simple trick: searching a phrase in quotes will yield only pages with the same words in the same order as what’s in the quotes. It’s one of the most vital search tips, especially useful if you’re trying to find results containing a specific a phrase.
  - Puppy Dog Sweaters
2. Let’s say you have a favorite website. It can be anything. However, that website is getting a little bit boring and you want to find other websites like it.
- You would use this trick: Related:Amazon
3. Use “DEFINE:” to learn the meaning of words—slang included

Take a look at some things that you can do with Google

Step 3- Navigate to this page & read the assignment

Lets try some "real world" examples of different searches. Your goal is to fill in as many answers as you can get to in ONE PERIOD! This assignment is IMPOSSIBLE to finish in one class, but your teacher will look at all of your searches and we will discuss the many different ways to solve the problems.

Google Search Quest

Link to the 'Google Search Quest' Document