Google your way to better results

Google is a fun and helpful resource. Most law students like using it because it is easier than a lot of databases used by lawyers. The skills and strategies used in Westlaw or Lexis can also be employed while using Google. All you have to do is consider how Google works. It is well known that Google's search algorithm is a company secret, but the general approach Google employs has been shared by Google. While the details of their algorithm is shrouded in secrecy to prevent people from gaming the system as well as to keep Google ahead of their competitors, the basics are widely known.

Google uses automated programs called spiders or crawlers to scour the Internet retrieving information in the form of words on each web page. The information is indexed and from the index Google applies the algorithm to create a rank of pages based on the query entered. Most people simply type in a key word or two, but a good search applies Boolean logic (AND/OR/NOT) to obtain results that maximize the relevance of your results. You can use AND/OR/NOT concept through Google's Advanced Search page.

When writing your query or search, keep in mind that Google indexes the information retrieved by the spiders in such a way that the content of the page and the pages own description determine whether it will be found in a particular search. If a page mentions certain key words in the page in itself and in the title, that page will likely be ranked high in a search using that key word. However, if you only ask for what you do not want and do not ask Google to omit irrelevant items you will waste time sorting through results. If you are looking for a story about a crime committed you can type in your relevant key word, but you can also ask Google not to bring back results involving crimes you aren't interested in. Because Google's index takes into account each word on a page you can easily eliminate unwanted results. For instance, using Google's Advanced Search tools you can search for murder, but not robbery. Next time you are using Google click on Advanced Search to the right of the search box to see all the ways you can control your results.


Developing your search skills will help you find the perfect place for dinner in record time, but more importantly, it will help you become a better lawyer.