Think
and plan before you search. View
and print a planner that
will help you make the most of your time online.
Understand
the difference between the search tools that are available to you.
If you’re still not sure, review the first popup window under
Step 2 on this page.
Be
very specific and choose the most descriptive terms you can think of.
You wouldn’t type the word bikes if you really want
information on stunt bikes, right?
Remember
to type the most important words FIRST.
If
you can, use at least three keywords or a phrase.
Don’t
depend on the Internet for all your research! Sometimes you can find exactly
what you need in less time from a book or encyclopedia. And don’t
forget the people living in your town who are experts on your topic.
Don’t
get impatient. Try several different types of searches until you get
what you need. Be on the lookout for better words to type in a new
search. Try using a subject directory like yahoo!kids
to help refine your search.
Read
the Help Screens and Searching Tips pages of your favorite search tool.
Make
sure the information you find is accurate. (Revisit the Race
Track on
Week 7 for tips on evaluating information sources.)