The Hybrid:  Directory With Search Engine

The other search engines are really modifications or hybrid models of the directory and the search engine models.  The directory with search engine uses both the subject and keyword search for its process.  The tool initially follows a directory path for the keyword search.  It progressively narrows the search field with repeated visits to a selected site.  This approach works well if the searcher is uncertain of either the subject or the appropriate keywords to use.

Examples of directory with search engine sites include:

Excite
http://www.excite.com/
Excite combines keyword searching and subject browsing in a unique and powerful way.

Multi-Engine Searching

Another approach to searching the vast Internet is the use of the multi-engine search, or meta-search engine that harnesses a number of search engines simultaneously.  A common or natural language request is electronically and transparently distributed to multiple search engines, each directed to find information the searcher requested.  The relevant hits are integrated into a single list that returns the abundance harvested from the many.  This methodology allows the user to cover a great deal of material in a very efficient way.  The protocol is also tolerant of imprecise search questions or keywords.

An example of a multi-engine site is:

MetaCrawler
http://www.metacrawler.com/
MetaCrawler refers your search to seven of the most popular search engines (including Alta Vista and Lycos), then compiles and ranks the results for you.

Click Here To Navigate Within Article >> Abstract Introduction Inner Workings Search Engine Types The Hybrid: Directory With Search Engine Searching the Internet Search Strategies Advanced Search Techniques Conclusion References About the Author
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Citation Number: Vol. 2, No 4, Page 037