The Internet, and particularly the World Wide Web, is a vast, confusing mix of incredibly useful information and garbage. The good news about using the Internet for research is that almost anything you want to know is probably out there somewhere. The bad news is that it is like searching for a particular item on a noticeboard, which is planted with millions of other noticeboards in a field the size of Texas.

This book takes the pain out of using the Internet as an information source, whether you need to know what's on at your local cinema, to find a telephone number of a company on the other side of the world, or to produce in-depth research material for your academic studies. It provides simple, practical ways to improve your ability to find the right information, with specific application-focussed sections to chase up specific requirements.

The book is split into Skills chapters, giving helpful information on finding things on the Internet, and Focus chapters, giving help with specific information topics.

In this second edition, in addition to all the original content there's new sample sites, updates to reflect more recent versions of the browsers (including built-in search facilities and context linking) plus references to emerging trends like e-books and comparison shopping.

Mining the Internet helps you to become an expert Internet navigator. Using a combination of readable text and handy side references from sample sites to features zooming in on a topic, it will give you the guidance you need to tame the Internet.  This is the book you're going to want to keep beside your PC.

For a more recent book covering a similar area but specifically aimed at students, please see Studying Using the Web.

v Reviews v

You think you are good at using the Internet? Well, unless you have checked out this book you may find there is an awful lot you are missing. A definite 10/10 must buy.

Graham Rawlinson FRSA, Next Step Associates

This publication is an excellent source of reference for all inexperienced Internet users [...] The book is divided into sections which provide information, but also suggest practical activities, pinpoint useful sites and highlight the major pitfalls of the Internet. The instructions are clear, never patronising and light-heartedly written. The book is easy to read in its entirety, but useful as a reference point for different aspects of the Net. The structure and layout are very user friendly with excellent use of graphics and images to enhance explanation and understanding. [...] The book enables users to enhance their surfing skills whether for in depth research or for low key information gathering and reference. Good value.

From a review in the UK Key Skills Support Programme (government/education agency)