How to use the Internet: Web Directories

Web directories are attempts to catalog the Web into subject areas. You are presented with a choice of headings, each of which is divided into further subheadings. You can think of the Web directories as the catalog of a library. Remember, though, that there is no central authority in the Internet, so the Web directories are more like particular users of a library writing their own guides for the benefit of other patrons. Some of these directories, therefore, are more useful than others.

Most directory services now combine the directory with a search facility on the same screen. Ignore the search boxes for the moment: concentrate on the subject headings. Have a look at each of the directories which the Netscape company has listed.

• How useful do you find each of them?
• What can you find out about how the directories are compiled?
• Do they list everything that is sent to them, or are they more selective?

Using Netscape, you can get to this list of directories at any time with the button.