The magazine of the Melbourne PC User Group Google, The Missing Manual - for the bookshelf Major Keary |
Google doesn't come shrink-wrapped or in a fancy box, so it is not surprising
there is no manual. There have been some books published, but if you want a
proper manual Pogue Press's Google: The Missing Manual is the book to have. An
advantage of the Missing Manuals is that program shortcomings are pointed out,
which is rare in vendor documentation.
Currently the most-used web search tool, Google has capabilities that go well
beyond simple, single term queries. Understanding how Google works and keeping
up with its developments is essential to getting the best results. It is also
important to appreciate that search engines do not observe a standard query
syntax; what applies in one does not necessarily apply in others. Even
elementary things - such as case sensitivity when creating a query - can make a
significant difference to end results.
There are four parts: search techniques; other features; search tools; and
information for webmasters. In the search techniques part there is a very useful
note on "When not to use Google". It explains some shortcomings (such as an
absence of a
partial-word wildcards) and points to sites that are better for particular kinds
of search.
'Other features' covers some interesting facilities, such as searching for
images, Google News, and Google Answers (a fee based search service that is well
worth exploring).
'Search tools' describes the Google toolbar, integrating Google with various
browsers, and getting the best out of sidebars and other on-screen features.
Information for webmasters deals with how to make a site Google-friendly,
linking up with Google, and even hiding a site from Google. There is also a
discussion of attracting income by accepting advertising.
Full use is made of screen shots to support the text, and there are helpful
boxed asides (hints, cautions, etc.). A workmanlike manual that will help users
take advantage of Google's many features.
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Milstein and Dornfest: Google: The Missing Manual ISBN 0-596-00613-6 Published by Pogue Press/O'Reilly, 299 pp., RRP $39.95 incl. GST |
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Reprinted from the April 2005 issue of PC Update, the magazine of Melbourne PC User Group, Australia
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