Use Google advanced search
Use exact phrases, domains and document formats deliberately, without excluding the evidence you need.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
Search operators narrow a search. They help when you already know what kind of source is relevant; they cannot make a weak source authoritative.
Start with the subject, then add one justified restriction. Google documents quotes, site: and filetype:; write the value immediately after the colon.
Examples to adapt
Try the subject with a publisher domain, then add PDF only if the format is useful.
Remove the quotes or check the wording against the original title before tightening the query further.
Follow the method
- 1Write the subject first
For example, begin with “air quality annual report”. Check the ordinary results before deciding what needs narrowing.
- 2Use quotes selectively
Quote a phrase only when its exact wording is known, such as a document title. An uncertain quotation can hide the right page.
- 3Choose a domain for a reason
Add site:ecologie.gouv.fr when you specifically need that publisher. A domain restriction searches that site, not every competent organisation.
- 4Choose a format if needed
Add filetype:pdf to seek a downloadable document. A PDF may be outdated or unofficial; inspect its author and publication date.
- 5Relax constraints and verify
Remove a restriction when results become unhelpful. Open the original document and check whether its scope answers the question.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record what you found. The grid supports a decision; it does not make one for you.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Phrase | Exact wording known | Quote only that phrase |
| Domain | Relevant publisher | Use site: without a space |
| Format | A downloadable file is needed | Try filetype:pdf |
| Coverage | Useful pages disappear | Remove one restriction |
Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.
What to check
A result count is not a quality measure.
A document format does not establish authority.
Keep the query and the document date separately.
Common questions
Do I need every operator at once?
No. Add one only to solve a specific problem and compare the results.
Does site: guarantee an official answer?
It limits a domain. You still need to identify the page, its author and its applicability.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.