Searcher's Guide —How to search the iGuide Catalog

IGuide search is different than Google search. Properly querying the iGuide Items Catalog ensures that you find the item page you're looking for quickly. Follow these best practices to optimize your search.

How to Search

1. Go to the iGuide homepage at www.iguide.net
2. Locate the search bar at the top of the page. On mobile, scroll down until you see the Search button.
3. Enter a relevant keyword, such as an item name or manufacturer.
4. Press the search button or press Enter.
5. Review the results and refine your search if needed.

Do

1. Keep it brief. Start with one word. Then two. If too many results, restrict the results list by adding more words.
2. Include a keyword like "Hummel" or "Zippo" or a manufacturer name like "Case" or "Mattel."
3. Check for spelling mistakes. The search doesn't autocorrect so make sure your keywords are spelled correctly.
4. Try different word orders If your first search doesn’t work, rephrase the order of your keywords (e.g., “Zippo 1935” vs. “1935 Zippo”).
5. Refine results with additional terms. If the initial search is too broad, add a second keyword (e.g., “Zippo” “Zippo 1935” “Zippo 1935 brass”).

Don't

1. Don't ask a question. Use "Hummel" not "How much is my Hummel worth?"
2. Use keywords not phrases. Use "Hummel" not "price of my Hummel"
3. Don't use plurals. Search "Barbie," not "Barbies."
4. Don't use quotes. Search gold ingot not "gold ingot".
5. Don’t misspell words The search won’t correct errors, so double-check spelling before submitting.
6. Don’t expect auto-suggestions. Search doesn't provide suggestions as you type, so you must type full keywords manually.
7. Don’t expect filters to refine searches Search doesn't have built-in filters for condition, year, or category, so you must refine manually using additional keywords.

In Conclusion

Following these guidelines will help you navigate the iGuide Object Database efficiently. Keeping searches simple and keyword-focused will yield the best results.

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