The search terms you use really determine your success. The words and operators you use to help you in your search can greatly improve or reduce the effectiveness of your searches. Boolean History Boolean logic is a symbolic logic system invented by mathematician George Boole. In 1849, Boole developed an algebra of logic, which has become the basis for computer database searches.
Boolean logic uses words called operators to determine whether a statement is true or false.
Most search engines including Yahoo, AltaVista Advanced Search, HotBot, and Excite can make use of Boolean operators. These operators are designed to put conditions on the keywords that you are searching for which can be a huge help when doing an online search. As with other elements within search engines, a fair amount of variability exists from one search site to another. Most search engines can make use of Boolean operators, which are designed to put conditions on a search. AND, otherwise the search engine will treat it as a keyword, not as an operator.