Search is a fundamental activity for modern internet users. It’s how you find what you need, and how you interact with the vast web of information available to us every day. And like any other form of interaction, search can be improved with the help of technology. Here are some ways that can improve your Google search experience without spending a cent.
Use Google’s AI-Based Smart Reply Feature
Google is constantly improving its AI smart-assist features. Today, the search engine supports a variety of different replies, including smart ones, to help you respond to common search queries in different ways. You’ve likely already seen this feature in action, as it can be activated within the Google search settings menu. To find it, click on the cog icon at the top-right of your screen, then select “Settings.” In the “Search” tab, select “Smart Replies,” then select “Enable.” The feature can then be accessed from the drop-down menu. So, from here, you can choose from a variety of pre-made replies, or create your own custom response. When you’re finished, click “Save Changes” to apply them to your search settings.
Browse In Incognito Or Private Mode
If you want to find the right product, service, or article, but aren’t sure where to look or what to search for, try browsing in incognito or private mode. This way, you won’t be tracked as you search and browse the internet. Incognito mode also prevents your history and open tabs from being saved on your device, which means that you can browse privately without worrying about anyone else seeing what you’re looking at. Both incognito and private modes are accessible from the settings menu on your device or browser. For incognito browsing, you’ll want to select an under-the-radar browsing option like incognito or private. For private browsing, select “Only This Computer” so that other devices on your network aren’t able to access the webpage you’re viewing.
Install A Search Gizmo
Do you often find yourself wondering if a particular product is worth buying? Search guzzlers mean you can find out without having to search for hours. Simply search for “search gizmo,” and you’ll find a variety of free and low-cost products that will quickly tell you what you need to know. You can search for these using the Google Search app, or you can visit the official Google gizmo website. These tools are often based on a question you’ve asked, or on a keyword you’ve entered into the search bar. Some of the best gizmos offer a mix of general information, as well as information on a single product or service. These gizmos aren’t a replacement for a more traditional search engine. Instead, they’re tools that can help you find information when traditional methods aren’t enough.
Reset Your Browser Settings
Did you know that you can reset your browser’s settings to default to improve your Google search experience? This can help you to find what you’re looking for when there’s an issue with how Google is displaying a page. For example, if an article was published in a newer version of Google’s guidelines, you can reset your browser settings to default to the older version of the guidelines. Doing so will allow you to view the page as it was published. You can also reset your browser settings to remove plugins and add-ons that may be causing issues. Google’s Chrome, Firefox, and Safari web browsers each have a “Clear History and Website Data” setting that can be used to reset your browser settings. To do so, select “Clear History” followed by “Clear Website Data” for each browser.
Speak To Google With A Virtual Assistant
If you find yourself searching for the same things over and over, consider using a virtual assistant to help you out. This feature, which is currently available in the Google Assistant app, uses machine learning and natural language processing to help you find the information you need. To use this feature, simply say “OK Google, what’s the weather like in Chicago tomorrow?” or type a query into the Assistant app’s search bar. This virtual assistant can then search Google, Wikipedia, and other third-party sources based on your query. Google says that it’s also working to bring its Assistant features to other platforms, including Amazon’s Alexa. If you want to help see this happen, you can let Google and Amazon know you want to see these virtual assistants cross-pollinate.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are tons of ways to improve your Google search experience without spending a dime. If you have any other suggestions, please let us know in the comments below!
