There are hundreds of search engines on the internet, each of them with their own set of rules and shortcuts. It's easy to get confused when it comes to finding the right answer to your query. For example, search for your name and see what comes up, much of it might be related to other people. How can you refine your results?
Our search can help. We've put together some tips to help you find what you want faster.
Be specific
Try and narrow down your results by using as many keywords associated with the object you're searching for as possible. For example, if you just type in 'football' when looking for the latest Championship results you may receive thousands and thousands of unsuitable links to trawl through.
Learn how to use '+' and '-'
In most search engines you can use a plus (+) sign before each word to ensure all your search terms are used. With our search you can rule out certain terms by adding a minus sign (-) or add some by adding ( + ).
For example, searching for 'Gordon Brown - labour party' rules out references to Labour Party related content and gives you results on a search for references to Gordon Brown, not his political affiliations The + and - signs are what are known as 'required' and 'prohibited' terms.
Use advanced search
If you're looking for something very specific, try using the advanced search feature set up on many popular search engines. This allows you to specify whether you want all, some or at least one of your keywords to be used in the search. Many will also let you search by language, date, file format, and even domain (web site address).
For example, our search allows you to not only search the web, but also allows you to narrow down your query to Tiscali.co.uk results.
Use the cache function
Even after getting to your website of choice, it can often be hard to find what you were looking for. Some search engines provide a cache function whereby you can see your original search terms highlighted within the body of the page so it's easier to find what you're looking for.
Copy someone else!
If you're looking for help with your PC, try entering a few key phrases from whatever error message you received, into the search box. This should usually do the trick and point you in the right direction towards fixing it.
Don't forget your PC's cache
Don't worry if you've lost an important webpage you found last week. Simply open your Internet Explorer's history and search the cache
.
Search by sender
If it's an important email you're looking for, most ISPs or mail providers will show you how to find it. In Tiscali webmail you can search by subject, message text, sender or recipient. Find out more
