Back to the basics: Effective Googling

While watching most friends and family search the net, I've noticed that they don't utilize Google to it's fullest. Most of you may already know this, but if you don't, here are some helpful tips to get more relevant results.

Googling 101 - Original Site
(note: italicized words are words that should be entered into the google search page.)

• Use quotes for phrases. Instead of searching for: canon digital camera powershot a590, try searching for: canon "digital camera" "powershot a590", results are usually more accurate this way.
• Use (-) sign for words you don't want google to find. If you were looking for "guitar hero 3" cheats for the ps2, and don't want to find cheats for other consoles. Instead of "guitar hero 3" cheats ps2, type in "guitar hero 3" cheats ps2 -wii -xbox -ps3. Using the (-) sign will omit results with the words preceding the (-) sign.
• Use the I'm feeling lucky button. This button will take you to the first website of the google results.
• These techniques also work for Froogle/Google Products as well!

Useful Google Functions

• Dictionary. Search: define . Example: define soliloquy
• Flight Info. Search: . Example: aa 1387
• Sports Scores. Search: . Example: San Diego Chargers
• Movies. Search: movies . Examples: movies 92114
• More Functions. For a more comprehensive list functions please visit this site.

Now that you are more familiar with the Google search engine, I will be covering more of the useful services, programs, and features that Google offers. Stay tuned!

Next topic: Gmail Basics.