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Six ways to research without Google
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Don't make the mistake of limiting your research only through Google. Using other sources will give you a more balanced and informed approach. (Shutterstock/File)
W
e use Google for almost everything we do on the internet. Researching for a paper is one of them, but there are ways to look for information without using the internet behemoth’s help; they may even prove to be much more helpful.
Here are six ways to research without Google according to Popular Science:
Use a different search engine
Google is the dominant search engine used around the world. It consistently tops its competitors in popularity, and if you didn’t already know, they own YouTube.
However, it does not have everything. Other search engines like DuckDuckGo, Dogpile, or WebCrawler can be great alternatives for those looking to get away from the bigger search engines. Their different algorithms can result in different links that you might not find through Google.
Read also: Google releases most searched ‘how to’ questions online
Use social media
Facebook and Twitter may not be great sources for scholarly journals (or comments for that matter), but when the right things are posted, it can be immensely helpful, especially if the post references a book or journal.
The advanced search feature on each site can also be a reliable tool to find the tweet or post you need.
Contact an expert on the field
Not all researchers or modern geniuses respond to their e-mail, but it’s better trying than not.
Try to message experts through e-mail or social media about the topic you are interested in. If they don’t have time to give you a detailed explanation, they might at least refer you to relevant articles or books, and most of them are happy to help.
Use public records
Before there was the internet, there were public records. Public records hold an extensive amount of information that everyone can access in their local library. But anyone can easily get information from their government’s website as well, like with the Central Statistics Agency (BPS).
Read also: Google expands fact checking in news searches
Use academic documents
Where else can you find more credible sources? In an academic journal, of course.
Academic journal databases are sure to have the in-depth knowledge you’re looking for, from diploma to doctorate. But there are a lot, and some specialize in a very specific field, so you’ll have to spend some time searching.
Do not be too specific
When researching something, people usually type the title of the topic they are focusing on -- this is a mistake many people make.
It is better to type out related keywords rather than the title. Who knows? There may even be an article that may be loosely connected to the research paper, giving you a unique perspective. (ezr/kes)
