methodology

Remember, the Internet extends beyond the World Wide Web and there are other resources you should explore. Some of these now have Web interfaces (like Usenet on Google Groups) and can be reached with your browser. Others require a little more effort.

FTP

FTP should be great, but it isn't due to limitations on your ability to search for info.  Some Web sites are now accumulating FTP links in easier-to-use Web format.

Ask:

1.    Do you really need a search engine?

2.    Do you need Boolean search capabilities?

3.    Would a specialized search service serve you best?

Once these questions have been answered, you can select the appropriate search services for your needs. If you are not sure where to begin, consider starting with a metasearch engine, like Dogpile.

And always - ALWAYS - search multiple search services. No one service covers all the Internet.

Follow these rules to choose the best keywords.

1.   Eliminate prepositions, conjunctions, adjectives, adverbs and articles.

2.   Focus on nouns.

3.   Combine keywords into natural phrases.

4.   Use wildcards to pick up variations.

5.   Use synonyms via the Boolean OR operator.

6.   Choose 6 to 8 words total.

Begin by identifying logical keywords  -- key concepts -- for your search. Start Low Tech: Get out a piece of paper........

Ask yourself:

• Who? 
• What?
• When?
• Where?
• How?
• Why?