Combined Search Operators

Combined search operators are the combination of multiple advanced search operators. Using multiple advanced search operators means that searches can be more refined thus more powerful and particularly useful when trying to find something like submit pages to directories (which will be covered later in this post).

How to Use Combined Search Operators

Initially combined search operators may seem a bit intimidating not only because of the long name but also because of the way they can be utilised. Here is an example of how they can be used in a regular situation:

site:*sony inurl:vaio

This will search sony and all it’s subdomains for URLs containing the word “vaio” – perfect for someone looking for a topic relating to Vaio PCs direct from the manufacturer.

Keep in mind that when using combined search operators it is best to not overdo it, as there is a definite plateau of useful results and sometimes Google can even respond by stating that the search is an automated request and block search momentarily.

Obviously there is no need to use combined search operators for every search in Google, so check out the Advanced Search Operators Cheat Sheet to find out when an individual search operator will be enough.

A Few Examples You Can Use Today

There’s nothing more useful than a few examples of how you can use combined search operators now, right? Well here are a few examples of how you can use them for SEO purposes:

• Finding useful cheat sheets: "allintext:seo cheat sheet filetype:pdf"
• Finding directories to submit URLs to: "inanchor:submit intitle:directory"
• Looking for links from a specific TLD: "inanchor:submit intitle:directory site:ac.uk"
• Looking for a contact page: "intitle:contact intext:email"

Written by Jason John Mills