How to Be a Webhound

The vast amount of information available on the Internet can be difficult to sift through. But, luckily there are techniques and search tools available, that can help you to track down that specific bit of information you are looking for. When armed with these techniques and tools you can become a true webhound.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Brainstorm a list of relevant keywords. A trained bloodhound does not track a scent by running off in every direction, and a webhound shouldn't either. Making a list will help you to narrow down the broad array of information that the Internet has to offer. Keep your keywords as specific as possible, and be sure to keep synonyms in mind, in order to find all of the possible options.

2. Search with multiple engines, such as Google, Yahoo! or Dogpile. You may find it helpful to take a minute to revamp your keyword list as you increase your understanding of the research information. You may discover new and helpful vocabulary or may decide you need to move your research in another direction as you investigate.

3. Use the "Advanced Search" options of your search engine to narrow your search. Most "Advanced Search" options will allow you to select specific words or phrases that appear in a website and the frequency the word or phrase is used, as well as a language, file format, publishing dates and number of pages. These search options will also allow you to select a domain, such as .org, .gov and .net. You can also limit your search options with "Advanced Search" by selecting topic specific searches such as books, scholarly searches, government pages and more.

4. Add the words "web directories" to the end of your keyword search. There are literally thousands of topic specific directories available for almost every subject. If your searches aren't pulling up enough topic specific information, webhound's may have more luck with a web directory. Web directories are almost always made up from the work of heavily credentialed experts, so you are sure to find a plethora of helpful and credible information.

5. Make a "Favorites" folder for Internet sites that you find helpful during your research, to keep your search and thoughts well organized. If your computer is taking too long to load images, you can turn off the auto-load option in your browser's "Options" menu. If a site still takes too long to load, click "Stop" and "Back" and continue your search elsewhere.

Tips & Warnings

• Always make sure that your spelling is accurate to ensure the best hits.