Google Search Techniques, Boolean Operators, and Source Evaluation (Video Notes)

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering Google search methods, Boolean operators, and evaluating sources as presented in the video notes.

Which operator enables searching for multiple terms by combining them in Google, using OR or |?

The OR operator (OR or |).

How do you search for synonyms in Google according to the notes?

Place a tilde before a word (~) to find synonyms.

How can you search within a specific website?

Use site: followed by the website URL to restrict results to that site.

What does the asterisk (*) wildcard do in Google search?

Represents unknown words; matches words that start with the root.

What is AROUND(n) used for in Google search?

Find terms that are within n words of each other.

How do you search within a numeric range in Google?

Use two dots between numbers, for example 10..20.

How can you target keywords in titles or URLs?

Use intitle: to search titles and inurl: to search URLs.

How do you find websites similar to a given site?

Use related: followed by the site URL.

How do you search for exact phrases on Google?

Enclose the phrase in quotation marks to search for the exact phrase.

Which symbol excludes terms from your search?

The minus sign - is used to exclude terms.

How can you search for images by image on Google?

Use Google Images search by image (upload or paste an image URL).

Which tools help you find word definitions and etymology?

Use define: for definitions and etymology: for origins.

How can you find a specific file type in Google?

Use filetype: followed by the file extension.

How can Google assist with spelling?

Type a word to receive spelling suggestions.

How can you track a package using Google?

Enter the tracking number directly into Google.

What are the three Boolean operators and their general purpose?

AND narrows results by requiring all terms; OR broadens; NOT excludes terms.

What does the AND operator do in a search?

Requires all keywords to appear; narrows results.

What does the OR operator do in a search?

Connects two or more terms so any can appear; broadens results.

What does the NOT operator do in a search?

Excludes terms that follow it from the results.

What is the purpose of using parentheses in Boolean searches?

Group terms to control precedence and refine results.

What is the effect of the asterisk in Boolean searches?

Wildcard that truncates words; matches words starting with the root.

What is the typical default execution order for Boolean operators in databases?

AND is usually evaluated first, then OR; parentheses can override.

Provide an example Boolean search combining AND, OR, and parentheses.

(university OR college) AND engineering AND cebu city.

What does the domain .org typically indicate?

An advocacy or not-for-profit organization site.

What does the domain .com indicate?

A business or commercial site.

What does the domain .net indicate?

A site from a network organization or Internet service provider.

What does the domain .edu indicate?

A site affiliated with a higher education institution.

What does the domain .gov indicate?

A government site.

What does the domain .uk indicate?

A site originating in the United Kingdom (country code).

What author information should you check when evaluating sources?

Author's name, credentials, qualifications, contact information, and homepage.

What should you determine about a source's purpose?

Intended audience and whether the purpose is to inform, teach, explain, persuade, or sell.

What does Objectivity assess in evaluating sources?

Whether information is factual or opinion, potential bias, and author affiliation.

What does Accuracy assess in evaluating sources?

Whether sources are cited, information can be verified, and whether content has been reviewed.

What practice is recommended to ensure a bibliography is complete?

Print or download pages you plan to use.

What is the recommended timeframe for quantitative research sources?

3–5 years; prefer the most recent data.

What is the recommended timeframe for mixed methods research sources?

3–5 years; balance current data with established theories.

What is the typical timeframe for qualitative research sources?

Typically within the last 5–10 years.

What is the timeframe for social sciences and humanities sources?

5–10 years.

What is the timeframe for natural sciences sources?

3–5 years.

What is the recommended currency for rapidly changing fields?

Up to 4–9 years.

Why is currency of sources important?

To ensure research uses reliable, up-to-date information.

What questions help evaluate the credibility and reliability of a source?

Is the information valid and well-researched? Are quotes backed by sources? What institution supports it? Is there a non-web equivalent?