Google Like a Rockstar

While working on a Search Engine Optimization (SEO) project for a client the other day, it occurred to me that not all users are aware of some of the little search tricks that can help refine your online searches. I thought I would share some of these tricks with you today, and have you searching like a pro and impressing your friends and family in no time!

I have compiled a list of advanced search operators for refining your Google searches. These are my top three. I use them all daily when searching online or working on an SEO project..

TIP 1: "Double Quotes"

By placing double quotes around a set of words or a phrase, Google will search for the exact phrase in the order in which you listed each term.   

Example: 




Notice that this search will only display results for this exact phrase in the exact order listed. All other instances of the key terms will not display. 

This can be very helpful if you are having trouble searching because your terms are too general when initially searched by Google using the standard search methods. When you specify the exact key phrase, you will be able to obtain results that are more precise! 

TIP 2: Minus Sign (-)

By attaching a minus sign immediately before a search word, you will exclude the term(s) you want to exclude in your results. Do NOT skip a space after the minus sign to activate the negative keyword operator.

Example:


 
The above search will complete a search for all the words in the search minus the word Facebook. This is a useful tool when you keep getting results that you aren't expecting and would like to omit certain keywords such as results from Facebook's website.

You can also use the minus sign operator in combination with double quotes. An example of this might be anti-virus software -"free download". This combination of operators would prevent any result that contained the key phrase free download.

TIP 3: Site Specific Search (site:)

Google allows you to search within a specific website when you add the operative (site:) before your search terms.

Example:




This search will result in displaying pages that reference the keyword portfolio from within the Eyesocket.net website only.

I have found this type of search very helpful when looking for a specific article that I remember reading online when I can remember the site, but not the article title.

Another instance I use this method for frequently is searching manufacturer sites for manuals. Example: site:Dell.com 3110cn, this would pull any information on Dell.com that references the Dell 3110cn printer rather than all of these types of printers that are on sale at eBay or other sites. It also gives me a breakdown on Google that may be more informative than the Dell.com site search allowing me to quickly find the data that I am seeking.

There you have it! I hope you find these three methods of searching helpful and are able to enjoy less time searching and more time finding! Until next time, Rock On!

# EKEN T102

Thursday, February 16, 2012 8:40 PM

Thank you for the excellent article 。 My husband and I were very impressed with all the issues that she addressed. They will be a big help to us, not to mention to the many families that are now and in the years ahead that will be caring for their parents and/or aging family members! Great job, Kathryn! It's a "keeper"!
Most Sincerely, Mr & Mrs Kloth

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