10 Simple Google Search Tips

For most people the days of Yahoo! or MSN search are over.  We use Google and we use it all the time.  As much as you might use Google, there are probably a number of other ways to use it that you may not know.  Check out these tips to see if you can expand on your Google search know-how.

1. Find a Definition (Ex. Define: charades)

Type in define: and then your word to get a list of definitions.

2. Get the Weather Forecast (Ex. weather 63132)

Google will give you a four-day forecast and allow you to click on a detailed forecast from the Weather Channel, Weather Underground, or AccuWeather.

3. Perform Conversions (Ex. 8 lbs in ounces)

This one is perfect for when you’re at the grocery store and need to make a quick conversion on your phone.

4. Track a Flight Status (Ex. delta 2250)

Google Search will tell you the date of the flight, the departure and arrival times, and whether or not the flight is on time.

5. Find the Location of an Area Code (Ex. 314)

If you’ve ever gotten a call and you don’t recognize the area code you know why this is helpful.  Just plug it in to Google and it will give you the city and state.

6. Track Your Package (Ex. 1Z9249W99957629999)

Google Search tracks packages for UPS, USPS, and FedEx.  Once you search Google will give you a link to easily find the status of your package.

7. Find Sports Scores (Ex. st. louis cardinals)

A search for your team will bring up the score of a current game or will give you the time of their next game.

8. Get Stock Quotes (Ex. msft)

Just search the ticker symbol and Google will give the price, the change, a number of other statistics, and links to many of the popular finance websites.

9. Get Local Movie Times (Ex. movies 90007)

Type in movies followed by your zip code and Google will return popular movies along with a rating based on reviews.

10. Search a Phrase Using Quotes (Ex. “web design”)

If you put your phrase in quotes Google will only return results with those words next to each other.  This ensures I won’t get results with graphic design or web site for my search “web design”.

That’s it for my list.  Do you have any other Google Search tips to share?

Other Resources

12 Quick Tips To Search Google Like An Expert
20 Tips for More Efficient Google Searches
Top 10 Obscure Google Search Tricks
Handy Google Search Tips: 19 Simple Tricks You Need To Know
Explore Google Search Tips
Google Icon