Search Engine Math
When you want to find information on the Internet, it's as easy as going to your favorite search engine, like Google and typing in what you wish to know. Sometimes we want an article on science but not science fiction. For such searches all you really need is some basic knowledge of search engine math. The word "math" might cause you a little bit of terror, but it can really help you be specific when searching for information.
Sometimes you want a search engine to locate all of the words you have entered. In that case, use the addition symbol (+) between the words. For example, you wanted to find information on science fiction. Typing in science +fiction will ensure that you only get articles and web sites on science fiction because only results with both words will be listed.
Other times you want a search engine to locate a topic but you definitely do not want certain aspects of that topic. In that case, use the subtraction symbol (-) between the words. In this example you're looking for articles on recipes without chicken. Typing in recipes -chicken will ensure that you only get recipes that have no chicken in them.
Specific phrases can also be searched for on a search engine. You're going on vacation and need to know about Yosemite camping reservations. By searching using quotations (“”), you can specifically look only for articles and web sites about camping reservations at Yosemite National Park. Doing a search for "yosemite camping reservations", your results will only feature articles and web sites featuring that phrase exactly in that order.
The above tips will assist about 90% of Internet searchers. They help limit the searches to only give you the results you are looking for. Search engine math will always help you be on the top of your Internet search game. All search engines sites have a help or Advanced Search section on their website to help you perform these searches and many more.
Happy Searching!