Search smarter, not harder [List]

By Kim Komando

September 13, 2023

© Roman Samborskyi | Dreamstime.com

Think of Google as a Swiss Army Knife. If you know how to use the hidden tools, you can get just about anything done. Here are a dozen not-so-conventional ways to use Google way beyond regular searches.

“Oh, Kim Komando, I hate Google!”

Hey, relax. Most of the great tips below work on whatever search site you use.

• Currency conversions: Next time you’re eyeing a European something-or-other online, type “[price] euros to dollars” to get a quick conversion, like “55 euros to dollars.” The exchange rate updates in real time.
• Quick definitions: Type “define [word]” to get its definition. So handy.
• Set a timer or alarm: Commands like “set timer for 20 minutes” or “set an alarm for 9 a.m.” give you an instant kitchen timer or alarm reminder to, say, give your cat its medicine. Just don’t close your laptop.
• Translate text: Stumble upon a tasty-looking French recipe? Type or paste the text into Google Translate. It’s a lifesaver when traveling, too.
• See numbers written as words: Uncertain about big numbers? Happens to the best of us. Type “953,116,070=english” and Google instantly tells you it’s “nine hundred fifty-three million one hundred sixteen thousand and seventy.” 
• Tilt your world: Type in “askew” and watch your search results take a quirky tilt a la pinball. OK, it’s not making you more productive, but it’s sure a fun prank.
• Know sunrise or sunset times: Search “sunrise in [location]” or “sunset in [location]” to see when the sun rises or sets for that date.
• Explore the universe: Simply type in a planet’s name followed by “Google Sky.” For example, “Mars Google Sky” lets you explore the Martian surface.
• Movie times and locations: Want to catch the latest blockbuster? Search “movies near me” for theaters, showtimes and reviews.
• Move to the beat: This one’s great for musicians, dancers and even fitness buffs. Punch in “metronome” and Google provides an adjustable, visual beat-keeper.
• Relax: Feeling stressed or need a short break? Type “breathing exercise” into Google for a calming, interactive guide instructing you when to inhale and exhale.
• Find flights fast: Need to get away or planning that long-overdue family visit? Type “flights from [your location] to [destination]” and Google serves up a platter of options. Bonus: Clicking “Flights” lets you compare prices directly.

Tags: Google, Kim Komando, locations, numbers, reviews, search results, searches, timer, tips and tricks, universe