Reference Desk: Choosing the Right Tool

When To Use An Index Or Subject Directory

Use an index or directory when you want to:

Browse information on a general topic

Are unsure of what specific keywords to use to refine your search
 
 

Strengths of Indexes
 
Human involvement in selecting resources for inclusion tends to increase relevancy
 
 
Weaknesses of Indexes
 
Human involvement in selecting and maintaing links tends to limit the size of indexes

Resources
Internet Search Indexes

When To Use A Search Engine

Use an search enginewhen you want to:

Find information on a specific topic rather than a general subject

Find a specific piece of information
 
 
 

Strengths of Search Engines
Lack of human involvement in selecting resources for inclusion tends to increase the size of the database
 
 
Weaknesses of Search Engines
Lack of human involvement in selecting resources tends to decrease the relevance of search results

Lack of human involvement in maintaing resources tends to increase proportion of broken links

Resources
Internet Search Engines

Comparison of Medical and Specialized Search Engines - Richard Terrass, M.Ed, R.T.(R), Massachusetts General Hospital

Comparison of Search Engine User Interface Capabilities - Gillian Westera, Curtin University of Technology

Finding Information on the Internet | Choosing the Right Search Tool | Search Tips | Internet Search Indexes | Internet Search Engines | Evaluating Internet Resources| Reference Desk | Medical Radiography Home Page

This site maintained by Richard Terrass, M.Ed., R.T.(R), Dept. of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Address questions or comments to ricter@wn.net

Last updated Feb. 24, 2000.