While this at first appears a good solution to finding information on the Web, there are disadvantages. Firstly, since different search tools use different syntax for submission of terms, this can mean that your result will not be as precise. Secondly, the meta-index will grab only a handful of results from each search tool. This means that the results are not comprehensive. The number of meta-indexes available is increasing and can be considered useful tools for doing fast but incomplete searches.
Hierarchical lists guide the user to relevant sites.
Use a search engine to search for a more specific item but be prepared to wade through irrelevant sites. Ensure that the search engine syntax is used to effectively find results quickly. Use the search engine help sheets to familiarise yourself with the syntax available for each search engine and realise that many offer different levels of searching. Use a meta-index to search for a specific item quickly but don't expect to find all the relevant information. Use a specific subject tool to search on a topic when you know it is available.