Ask.com Review

When it comes to search engines, Google practically own the field.  As an avid reader, writer and researcher, I've become very good at using Google to get the information I need.

But there are times

Yes, there are times that I'm stumped.  I don't know whether I'm just on overload or what, but I just can't seem to refine the search to give me precisely the nugget of information I'm looking for.

Funny, I can frame the search as a question in my mind but I can't seem to get Google to give me what I'm looking for.  That's when I turn to Ask.com.

Ask.com

If it's been awhile since you've used something other than Google for search, you might remember this search engine by its original name Ask Jeeves.  The site, now owned by  IAC/Interactive Corp. and headed by media mogul Barry Diller was originally designed to be searched by responding to specific questions asked in everyday English.  Google of course, went the key word and qualifier approach.  So, if you're strong in Boolean Logic, Google is most often a snap.

But, sometimes you just want to know "who was on the first cover of People Magazine?"  Answer:  Mia Farrow.  Ask a question in almost any form and Ask.com will take you to the right neighborhood no matter how inelegantly the question is put.  If it doesn't quite understand what you're looking for it will give you suggestions to click on.

Ask.com will also take a search request in the now common key word approach, so if you're already there there's no reason for you to have to go back to Google to do a key word search.  Give it a try.

Even if your a search klutz, Ask.com will help you drill down until you have exactly what you're looking for.

My Viewpoint

Hey, it's hard to knock Google.  It's smart, very, very smart.  But sometimes the mind is just a bit weary.  And when it is, Ask.com can be a good friend.  Try it.

Rudi