As much of our daily lives take place online, it is important to know how to use this technology wisely. Whether you are buying a new pair of sneakers or restocking on toilet paper, the internet can be a useful tool when used correctly.
It is also important to know how to find reliable information online. You can do this by asking your teachers and librarians for recommendations. They can point you in the right direction for school related research or for general information on various topics. Additionally, you can go to library websites and subscribed databases for more specific research. For example, the NASA image database compiles pictures from over 60 collections into one searchable interface. This saves time by not having to hop from site to site and helps you zero in on your topic quickly. Other good places for information are the Internet Movie Database, Art Cyclopedia and UBUWeb. You can also learn a lot about history by visiting Perseus Digital Library or Project Gutenberg.
It is also helpful to look for footnotes in strong online articles. This will help you get a deeper understanding of the topic by taking you to the source material. For health related information, be sure to check the date of the article. Also, be sure to question any dramatic writing and promises of cures that seem too good to be true. It is also a good idea to see your doctor before making any medical decisions based on information you read online.