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How to Use Google Search to Find PDF Documents

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By Diligent77
User-Submitted Article
(2 Ratings)
Use Google Search to find PDF Documents
Use Google Search to find PDF Documents
http://www.google.com/

As most of us know, Google has accumulated just about every bit of information in the known universe, so it is an excellent tool to use when doing research. One of my favorite things to do when conducting research of any kind is to go on Google and see if there are any PDF reports or documents on a given topic, because normally these types of documents provide published research and topical studies in a more in-depth manner. This article will show you how to use Google's regular search engine to find PDF documents on any given topic.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • A computer with an Internet connection
  1. Step 1

    Go to Google.com. This is the starting point of all knowledge, my friend. Once Google's home page pops up, click on the little "Advanced Search" link to the right of the search bar.

  2. Step 2

    Enter whatever keyword is the most relevant for the topic you're studying in the box right underneath where it says "Find web pages that have..." You should see a label immediately to the left of that box entitled "all these words:" Type your topic in that search box. For instance, if I was studying about gorillas, I would just type in "gorillas".

  3. Step 3

    Look a little farther down the page where it says "File type:" and click the drop-down arrow to see all of the menu choices. Select "Adobe Acrobat PDF". As you can see, there are other document types you can search for as well, including Microsoft Excel sheets and PowerPoint presentations.

  4. Step 4

    Click the "Advanced Search" button and let 'er rip. All of the results that will be returned to you will be PDF documents that are relevant to your search query. How cool is that?

Tips & Warnings
  • Feel free to experiment with the Advanced Search tools. There are a ton of ways you can find information in formats other than just plain Web pages.
  • Use your powers for good, not evil.
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