Internet Search Tips

Search Tips

• Spelling
  Make sure your search words are spelled correctly.
  Different diseases may have similar sounding names, so have your doctor write down your diagnosis to be sure you research the correct topic. Use one of the medical dictionaries in the Reference Desk section if you are unsure of the spelling.

• No Results?
  When your search has no results, try using a different name or finding a different phrase for your topic. For example, it is helpful to know the chemical or generic name(e.g. acetaminophen) as well as the brand name (e.g. Tylenol),because either name may be useful in a search.

• Using databases to locate print information
  When searching for information in a database of journal articles, keep in mind the body part in question, the technology involved, any chemical or drug names involved, and alternate terms for each. For example, it is helpful to know the chemical or generic name(e.g. acetaminophen) as well as the brand name (e.g. Tylenol), because either name may be useful in a search.

Evaluation Tips

• Ownership of site, including disclosure of all sponsors and affiliations.
  The ownership can reveal potential biases. Avoid anonymous sources.
• Purpose of site
  Is the purpose stated? Is it a commercial site intended to promote or sell a product? Is there advertising? Is it an educational site? Also, the URL of the site often acts as a clue. Generally, the most objective information sources have URLs ending in .gov, .edu or .org. (Note that some credible sources, such as hospitals, use a URL ending in .com.)
  • .gov - government agencies
  • .edu - academic or medical institutions
  • .org - non-profit institutions, such as associations, or peer-reviewed medical or science journals.
  • .com - commercial site
• Credibility of source
  Look for references and authors' professional credentials to assess the reputation of the source.
• Contact information for questions and feedback.
  An address for a physical location, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses should be easy to find.
• Currency of information
  When was the last update? Healthcare information can change repidly with research and treatment advances, making it important to look for the most recent information.
• Credible content
  How is content selected? Is there an Editorial Board? Are opinions separated from facts?
• Usability
  Is the site clear, easy to use and accessible to all? Is there a search function?