How to Do Everything with Google

If you think your Web searches are a little lacklustre and you’re often frustrated by the results, How to Do Everything with Google has a bookload of tips to improve your skills.

This book is so full of anecdotes and background information, it could alternatively be called Everything You Wanted to Know About Google, but Were Afraid to Ask. Some examples of this type of information include the story behind Google’s logo cartoons for special occasions and how a Google Answers researcher got the gig.

Of course, the main purpose of the book is better searching, and How to Do Everything with Google has lots of ways you can improve your ability to get good results by understanding how Google works. Two of the authors as well as the book’s technical editor work at Google, and it’s clear they know what they’re talking about. This also means, however, that the coverage if fairly upbeat and pro-Google — that said, other search engines are mentioned occasionally.

Even avid Googlers will find something new in this book, although many of the tips can be also be found by carefully reviewing Google’s own how-to information. That’s not to say the book is a waste of money — it just depends on how familiar you are with the powerful tools Google possesses.

For instance, you may be wasting time searching for answers in a general search when a search through news group responses will yield a faster, more targeted response. The book helps make clear when particular search techniques are warranted. Finally, the book may also be of help to parents looking to show their kids better search methods.