It’s simple to get the most out of your web searches if you know the right ways to search. Here are a few tips and tricks you can use with the Google search engine to help you get exactly what you want, every search, every time.

1] Don’t have a Dictionary handy? Thank god for the internet!
Simply enter the word “define:” before a word you would like to view the definition for. Google will provide you with a number of different options.

2] Save time and effort! Google does your math homework too!
You better not take me seriously. Anyway, you can place a simple equation into Google Search and it will automatically solve it. Using the +,-,/,* symbols to define the operation you would like to see.

3] Disoriented? Here’s how to find directions, addresses and locations to your favorite businesses, museums, attractions, and so much more.
The very first thing you want to indicate, besides what type of establishment you’re looking for, is where you are at. It is easiest search your area when you use a Zip or Postal code in conjunction with the sort of place you’re looking for. If you don’t have the zip or postal code handy where ever you might be, just input a main intersection or cross street that is closest to you, and follow that with the city and state, and usually you will at least acquire an address with the same zip code.

Here is an excellent example of using the right words.

Your search results will usually include a local business result, which can be seen above. Clicking the links will take you directly to a Google Maps location profile. Simply select the “get directions” link above the picture of the map in the profile, and Google’s interface will guide you through directions.

4] Looking for a certain phrase or a specific block of text?
The easiest way to do this is to simply put quotes before and after the phrase. Google will kindly exclude the most common words, just keep in mind that the best way to find your results is usually with as few words as possible.

5] Number Range: How can I associate a range of numbers with a search term?
Simply place your search term between brackets and place two periods between the range of numbers you would like to search through. Such as ["Nobel Prize Winner",2000..2009] in order to find the Nobel Prize Winners between the years of 2000 and 2009.

6] The site I’m using doesn’t quite know how to index their pages, and I need to find something, can I search for something on a specific site?
Place the address (you don’t need the full address) after the word “site:” in brackets. After you have done this, enter the particular term you are searching for on the site. Here is an example: [amazon.com farming] for something on amazon.com related to farming.
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One can simply put before or after the subject they’re looking for the sitename with “site:” before it. Thusly, site:www.thinkgeek.com USB would return results that include “USB” in the title or text and are on www.thinkgeek.com

7] I’m looking for a very specific file type, can I do that too?
Yes, and it’s quite simple too. When you put in the subject of your search, simply add the type of file you’re looking for behind or before the subject with the word “filetype:” right before the file type you’re looking for. An example is Walking After Midnight Filetype:Mp3.

8] Looking up phone numbers, how about that?
You can do that too. Just drop the phone number in question into the search bar, and simply put “phonebook:” before the number. Otherwise, just putting the number into the search engine will of course give you whatever may be the most popular result for said phone number. So if you receive a call from someone you don’t know on your cell phone, you can drop it into Google and almost instantly find out if it’s a telemarketer or bill collector.

9] Wait, I think I just got a call from Zimbabwe or something. How can I make sure?
Simply put in the area code for the number in question, and Google will automatically let you know where the area code is from.

10] Can I check my stocks from Google search?
Simply type in the ticker symbol for the stock you would like to view, and Google with provide you with the most recent stock information for that company. For instance, GOOG would take you to the most recent stock info for Google. Also, there is a specific feature that you can utilize to look for stocks and finances. Simply search for the word “finance” and your first search result will be “Google Finance” just type in the ticker symbol in question and you will receive up to date information on said stock.

This article written by Laura Lemons, 3/2009