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5 simple tricks that will turn you into a Google power user

Published May 29th, 2015 11:06AM EDT
Google Search Tips Tricks Hidden Features

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Google Search is a very powerful service ready to bring you answers to most of your questions — sometimes even before you’ve finished typing them. But there are some tricks you might not know about that will let you use Google’s search tool like you’ve never done before.

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Most Internet users simply type words or phrases into the Google Search bar, refining their search parameters only if the first results they receive aren’t satisfactory. However, there are more efficient ways to use Google Search, and the following five tips should save you some time.

For example, you can use various search operators when performing a search to give Google more details about what you’re looking to find. One useful trick that will help you score deals on gadgets, for example, is to separate numbers by two periods to see results that contain numbers in that given range. For example, “iPhone 6 $500..$600” will show you results that mention prices in that range for Apple’s newest iPhone.

A second handy search operator you can use to improve results is “allintitle:“, which will let you search only for news articles that contain all your keywords in the title. Performing a search for “allintitle: Android M features” will show you titles that have these words in the title.

When searching for connected items you can use the “&” symbol inside Google Search. Looking for “Android M & Nexus 5” will deliver results that contain both keywords.

More interestingly, Google has certain hidden features that might not be obvious even to savvy Internet users. With only a few keywords, you can perform special operations directly from the Search bar, such as tracking a package by simply entering its tracking number in the Search bar.

In fact, Google has just released a similar new Google Search feature that lets you order food directly from Search, though the feature is limited in functionality for the time being.

Sometimes, words aren’t enough to perform a search, and that’s where Google Goggles can be handy. The Android app uses the phone’s camera to perform searches based on an image you capture, assuming Google can recognize what’s in it. Searching the web using an image is also possible on desktops by going to Google Images and uploading your chosen picture.

Looking for even more cool Google Search to further improve your search game? Check the infographic right here.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.