No matter how many changes Google makes to its search algorithm, you can rest assured the majority of people will continue to consider the "Big G" their search engine of choice.

In the early days of search engines (think the late 90's), your approach was simple: type a keyword(s) into the search box and wait for the results. This remains the foundation of any online search, but in today's world there are steps you can take to become a "power searcher."

Some take whatever information is given to them. But others use Google hacks to ensure the delivery of the highest quality results. With these hacks in mind, it is easier and more efficient to find what you are looking for.

The "Search within a site" hack is one of the most effective and powerful. As an example, if you want to find my other articles published on, you can search the following string in Google: Larry Kim

Isn't this easier than typing "Larry Kim" into the search box and hoping to find what you're looking for?

While the "search within a site" hack is commonly used, others don't garner nearly as much attention.

Take, for example, the "blank" hack. With this, you can use an asterisk (*) to find the missing word in a phrase.

The infographic below uses the example:

there is a * that never goes *

For the sake of this search string, most results returned on the first page relate to the famous song, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out, by The Smiths.

If you are one of those people who can never remember song lyrics or titles, this search hack will come in handy.

Check out the following infographic for other Google hacks that will convert you from an amateur user to a power searcher.

Published on: Dec 17, 2015
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