Web directories are lists of hand-selected sites compiled by Web users and Organized Into Categorical tree structures to help users locate sites with content that's Relevant to Their research. Web directories are very useful When you want to find sites related to a specific category.

Insights for Web Directories

• Web directories are browsable collections of links, assembled by Humans and Classified by subject.
• Web directories Generally Fall Into two categories: scholarly (assembled, edited and annotated by experts and Professionals) or commercial (Rely on site traffic and advertising to Operate).
• To find subject directories, Simply add the term "directory" to your search query. This will lead you to a page of Pre-selective sources on the topic you're searching. Different Each directory has a focus, and you'll Need One That suits your individual needs. For instance, if you want to find sites on video game cheat codes, a commercial directory like the Open Directory Project or dmoz would be a good start. If you want access to sociology journals, try a directory scholarly Such as ipl2 .
• Because directories Contain only the title, URL and a brief description of Sometimes the sites listed and not a site's full text, your search within a directory will be most general Successful Than if you're more specific. Keep this in mind When forming your search terms: It May be best to begin with a broad topic to reduce the chances of Eliminating valuable sites. For example, if you're looking for information on Picasso, start by searching for "modern art," then explore the sites listed.
• Browse a directory only if it Lacks a search function. If you're browsing, you'll Need to guess Which subject heading would fall under your topic at Each layer. At Any Point If you follow an incorrect topic, you'll miss the link That You're looking for. To Ensure Quality, Some questions ask yourself: How are the links selected, and By What Are They Judged criteria? Are the links Accompanied by descriptions? These descriptions are written by staff directory or by Web site creators Themselves? For answers to These questions, visit the "Web Site Credibility" section of this guide.