Beyond web search tips and tricks: Thinking through the search

Abstract

The author recommends a more intentional Web search strategy that will help students retrieve better search results. Teachers and librarians can help students to improve their searching skills by asking these four key questions: Is the open Web the right tool? What type of source is likely to contain the information I need? Where am I likely to find this information? What terms are likely to appear on the page I am looking for? The answers will help the student decide where the search will be conducted, what terms should be used to execute the search, and the particular tactic or strategy that will help retrieve the information most efficiently.