One method is to always include a locality when performing a search. Searches that include a locality will provide links to additional reference materials, maps, links, and any other data related to that location. A second method to increase the number of hits is to leave the first name blank. Some databases may not include all first names and others might include nicknames or alternate spellings. A third way to increase the number of hits is to try alternate spellings of the surname.
Many surnames have alternate spellings or have changed spellings over time.
Trying various spellings can therefore often increase the number of hits and also provide additional insight into family histories. You may perform a GlobalSearch and find a compelling database that you would like to spend more time searching on its own. Or you may be interested in the source and a description of the database. You can view information about a specific database by clicking on the blue question mark next to the database on the search results screen. You will then be taken to the main page of the database, which includes a search interface for the database, the database's bibliography, and a description of the database.