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Search Tools: tool characteristics, search tool sampler | Search Strategies: keyword, phrase, concept, boolean, field, wildcard | Evaluating Information | Supplemental Links Phrase Searching
Phrase searching is another powerful way to narrow your search. Phrase searching involves
searching for an exact phrase or sentence. Many search engines use quotation marks
("") or hyphens (-) to connect words together. For example, searching on
"choosing a dog" or choosing-a-dog returns 228 matches in Infoseek. Phrase searching is also handy when trying to find a specific quotation. For example, try searching on
"ain't nothing but a hound dog"
Although not supported by all search tools, concept searching allows us to develop complex searches. Concept searching involves finding terms that are closely related to the keyword(s) you enter. For example, when we search for dog on AltaVista (http://www.altavista.com), we get more specific options for specific breeds, such as Cocker Spaniel and Springer Spaniel. Some search engines support a similar type of searching. In this case we use plus (+) and minus (-) signs to specify which words must or must not appear in matched pages. For example, searching for
+dog +obedience -bite -leash is another way to include or exclude words in our results.
The Master Internet Volunteer Program was developed by the University of Minnesota Extension Service and was adapted for use in North Dakota with permission. Copyright © 2000 North Dakota State University. All rights reserved. North Dakota State University Extension Service |
