Internet Research with Google Advanced Search

Three approaches to searching the Internet...

Having decided that an Internet search is worthwhile, there are several approaches to choose from.

• Directories: are designed to aid browsing and are best used for broad topic searches (eg e-commerce). A typical example is the Google Web Directory, with its hierarchical subject arrangement.
• Subject gateways: the Monash Library maintains Subject pages which include annotated lists of selected Internet sites, according to discipline. They are an excellent way of becoming familiar with key Internet resources in your subject areas. A list of subject gateways is Pinakes. These are, like directories, browsing tools.
• Search engines: allow more focused searching (eg have there been any recent reports from the Australian government on the regulation of e-commerce?). There are a range of different search engines with varying capabilities.

This tutorial focuses on use of the Google (Advanced) search engine, but introduces general principles which are applicable to all Internet searching.