How the Web Works
Boolean Search Operators: Your Secret Search Superpower
Mini-Lesson: What Are Boolean Search Operators?
Boolean search operators are like secret codes that help you tell search engines exactly what you want.
The Four Operators You Need:
- AND - Use this to include multiple terms. Example: "cats" AND "dogs" ... "cats" & "dogs"
- OR - Use this to include either term. Example: "cats" OR "dogs" ... "cats" | "dogs"
- NOT - Use this to exclude a term. Example: "cats" NOT "dogs" ... "cats" -"dogs"
- " " (Quotation Marks) - Use these to search for an exact phrase. Example: "cute cats"
Why Use Them?
- Get more relevant results
- Save time by filtering out unwanted information
- Find specific information that might be buried in a sea of results