Intronet

A common mistake new Internet users make is using the same searching technique to look for the weather in Bali, the patch to a software bug, or a reliable chiropractor. Ineffective searches can waste valuable time, monopolize terminals, and discourage users. Search engines often turn up information only distantly related to the subject; links return error messages as Web sites change or vanish without warning; and many of the sources are inaccurate, outdated, or biased. IntroNet helps solve this frustrating problem by putting the expertise of a seasoned Internet searcher at your fingertips, with basic searching principles and time-saving strategies for locating everything from obscure statistics to long-lost friends -- quickly and painlessly. Helpful for staff members who assist Internet users -- and an indispensable reference for users -- IntroNet offers basic step-by-step instruction on: selecting and using the right search engines or search directories; reworking terms for better results; finding specialty sites, news groups, discussion groups and chat rooms; and evaluating Internet sources for relevance, quality, and accuracy. A "Net Searcher's Checklist" is a handy short-list of steps to keep beside the computer, and a live companion Web site posts updates to the text.