LearningXL

By Laura Milligan

When you’re researching colleges, online schools and graduate universities, you’ve got a lot of choices to make. From academics to student-faculty ratios to the most diverse and even most attractive student bodies, which aspect of campus life is most important to you? Before you get too overwhelmed trying to find the best university ranking, take a look at our list of 100 different kinds of college rankings, from the traditional to rankings that measure demographics to ones that estimate your chances of striking it rich after graduation. Getting accepted is up to you.

Traditional

Check out these rankings first if you’re starting your college research from scratch.

1. Princeton Review Academics: View rankings for Best College Library, professors, financial aid and more.
2. U.S. News and World Report National Universities: This list features one of the most prestigious college rankings around.
3. Forbes: America’s Best Colleges 2008: This list ranks the Top 50 Overall, Top 25 Public, Top 25 Private, and even 30 Surprises.
4. College Prowler Academics: Browse schools by their College Prowler grade: A+, A, A-, B+ and so on.
5. College Rankings: America’s Best Colleges: AOL’s list includes top schools like Princeton, Harvard, Yale, California Institute of Technology and more.
6. The Top 50: College Humor’s list ranks Penn State, University of Florida and Virginia Tech as the top 3.

Business Schools

Check out these business school rankings to learn about specialty programs, executive programs and online schools.

7. 2008 Best Business Schools and Specialty Programs: Yahoo! Education’s lists cover best business schools overall, best Executive MBA programs and more.
8. Executive MBA Rankings: The Wall Street Journal’s ranking reviews each program and school in great detail.
9. Bschool.com: Research the Top Online Colleges with business programs here.
10. Best Schools by Specialty: BusinessWeek’s list helps business students find the best school for them by major–such as finance, management and consulting, marketing, and more.
11. The Best U.S. B-Schools of 2008: This interactive ranking lists Chicago’s Booth school in the top spot.
12. Top 50 Entrepreneurial Colleges for 2008: This list features both undergrad and graduate programs.

Atypical Rankings

From great schools for average students to rankings that are based on the campus squirrel population, these off-the-wall rankings are a lot of fun and strangely useful.

13. Parties: The Princeton Review’s Parties rankings include lists like Reefer Madness and Lots of Hard Liquor.
14. Up and Coming Schools: Forget Ivy Leagues. These schools are the ones everyone will be talking about in the next few years.
15. The Campus Squirrel Listings: Check out this ranking system to find out why "the quality of an institution of higher learning can often be determined by the size, health and behavior of the squirrel population on campus."
16. Best Social Life: According to StudentsReview, students at Tulane, Dartmouth and University of Missouri - Columbia have the best social life in the U.S.
17. A+ Options for B Students: Just because you’re not at the top of your class doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to go to a good school. Look for more options here.

Medical and Nursing Schools

Here you can find rankings and stats for medical schools and nursing schools.

18. Top 10 Medical Schools: You’ll find two separate lists for research schools and primary care schools.
19. Best Medical Schools: U.S. News and World Report ranked Harvard the best medical school in 2008. Find out who else made the list.
20. Medical School Rankings: This list ranks schools based on MCAT average and acceptance rate.
21. SDN PreMeds’ Medical School Index: The Student Doctor Network ranks nearly 150 medical schools here.
22. Nursing School Rankings: The Nursing Online Education Database ranks online degree programs here.
23. Guide to Health Programs: U.S. News and World Report ranks public health, pharmacy and nursing programs here.
24. Top Schools for Nursing: Purdue University, University of Florida and Wheaton College round out the top 3 in this list.

Demographics

Find out which schools are the most diverse and the most welcoming to minority students here.

25. Demographics: The Princeton Review: Here you can find several rankings related to demographics, including Most Religious Students, Gay Community Accepted, and Diverse Student Population.
26. Historically Black Colleges and Universities: Twenty-five historically black colleges are ranked in this list, including Tuskegee University and Spelman College.
27. 25 Top Colleges for Hispanics: Hispanic Magazine ranks schools like Princeton, Amherst and Stanford as being some of the best schools for Hispanic students.
28. 100 best colleges niche factor: CosmoGirl! ranks the best colleges for women based on career services, health services, athletics for women and more.
29. Top 50 Colleges for Black Students: Morehouse, Hampton University and Spelman College are ranked as the top 3 in this list.
30. Top 10 Most Diverse Schools: These schools welcome the most diverse student bodies in the country.
31. Best Colleges for Asian Americans: This site lists the top 15 liberal arts schools and top 15 universities that are most welcoming to Asian American students.

Law Schools

For help researching the best law schools, including best value law schools, check out this list.

32. Law School Rankings: The Princeton Review’s rankings include lists like Best Career Prospects and Best Classroom Experience.
33. Top 2008 Law School Rankings: This ranking system uses qualifications like student-faculty ratio, educational quality and more.
34. Guide to Law Schools: Discover the best law schools here, based on tuition, specialty offerings and more.
35. Judging the Law Schools: Here you’ll find rankings based on the institutional index, diversity index, value, quality and more.
36. Composite Law School Rankings: The Consus Group lists Yale, Harvard, Stanford, Columbia and NYU as their top 5 schools.
37. Best Value Law Schools: If you dream of going to law school but aren’t sure you can afford it, check out this list.
38. Law School Rankings: This site ranks the top 20 law schools in the U.S.

Technology

These days, schools compete to offer the most advanced technology resources and the best wireless options. Research wireless campuses here.

39. America’s Most Connected Campuses: Find out which college campuses are the best for wireless access and more.
40. Top 100 Wireless Colleges: Indiana University, Purdue, and The University of Texas at Austin are ranked as the top 3 wireless campuses in this list.

Campus and Buildings

If a beautiful campus is very important to you, visit these rankings that come with photos of the university and its grounds.

41. The 20 Most Beautiful Colleges in the USA: View pictures of campuses like Wagner College, CUNY Brooklyn, Rhodes Colleges and others here.
42. The 20 Ugliest Colleges in the USA: By comparison, you can see photos of the ugliest campuses here.
43. Top 5 Most Beautiful College Campuses: Princeton, Pepperdine, and Agnes Scott College are included in this list.

Attractiveness Rankings

Going to college isn’t just about getting an education and preparing for a career. Find out which schools have the most attractive student bodies.

44. College Prowler - Girls: Schools that earn an A+ for hot girls include Loyola College in Maryland, Arizona State and Pepperdine.
45. Best Looking/Most Attractive Women: College Confidential’s message boards rate the campuses with the hottest women.
46. College Prowler - Guys: Only two universities earn an A+ ranking here: Texas A&M and University of Arizona.
47. Hottest Student Bodies: Top 50 Universities Ranked by Looks: This list comes with pictures.
48. Best, most attractive college towns: Discover the most attractive college towns here, from Austin to Baton Rouge.

Best Value Rankings

Discover best value schools and schools that accept the most financial aid here.

49. Top 10 Best Value Colleges: View the best value public and private colleges here.
50. Tuition and Costs — Data and Rankings: This blog ranks schools like Brigham Young University and the U.S. Naval Academy according to tuition and financial aid.
51. Top 100 Colleges by Highest Tuition: Bates College, Middlebury College and Colby College are ranked as the top 3 most expensive colleges in this list.

Buzz Schools

These up-and-coming schools are starting to get more attention. Find out why.

52. 25 Hottest Schools: Newsweek’s list ranks the hottest schools for sports fans, the hottest Ivy, hottest men’s college and more.
53. The 10 Coolest (and Greenest) Colleges in America: Sustainablog ranks the most environmentally conscious schools here.

Athletics

For rankings on sports programs and athletic facilities, turn to this list.

54. Rankings - Athletics: Schools like LSU, OSU and UT receive an A+ for athletics from College Prowler.
55. Athletics - Overall: This blogger ranked schools’ athletic programs according to football bowl wins, intramural programs, number of NCAA championships and more.
56. NCAA Statistics and Records: Browse sports statistics by sport or championship records to evaluate schools.
57. The Associated Press Top 25 Poll: Sports Illustrated’s poll features schools like Alabama, Texas Tech, Florida, Oklahoma and USC.
58. Extracurriculars: The Princeton Review finds out which schools have the most team spirit and offer the best athletic facilities.

Online Schools

Online schools offer a lot of flexibility. Find out which ones are the best deals and offer the best education here.

59. OEDB’s Online College Rankings: The Online Education Database’s list of online schools is helpful for distance learners and those going back to school.
60. Best Colleges and Universities Online: Check here for a wide range of online degree programs and schools.
61. Online and Distance Learning Reviews: Schools like DeVry, Central Pennsylvania College and Keller Graduate School of Management are graded here.
62. The Top 25 Online Degree Programs: Highly recommended schools ranked here include AIU Online, University of Phoenix and more.

International Rankings

If you’re looking to enroll in an international university, use these rankings as a guide to finding the most reputable schools.

63. The Best International B-Schools of 2008: BusinessWeek’s list helps students wanting to enroll in an international business school research tuition, job offers and more.
64. Ranking Web of World Universities: This site believes that high web rankings can sometimes equal prestige and a good reputation.
65. European MBA Rankings: Schools like the London Business School and HEC Paris round out the top 10 here.
66. Financial Times Business school rankings: This British paper lists the best MBA programs available.
67. Guardian University Guide: The Guardian’s University Guide ranks universities around the UK.
68. International Side by Side Rankings: Here you can compare the top rankings of business schools as determined by The Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek, Asia Inc., India Times, and more.

Rankings by Students

If you’d like to know what students have to say about their university, check out these rankings.

69. Rate My Professors: Here students can recommend or warn other students about professors. Rankings are organized by hotness factor, homework, and level of difficulty.
70. College Prowler: This fun site is "written by students for students."
71. StudentsReview: The SR Dynamic University and College Rankings include lists like the Top Creative Schools, Most Beautiful Campus and The Top IVY.

Rankings by Region/Location

From Northeast to the Midwest to the West, these rankings are divided up by region.

72. Best Regional Colleges: Browse The Princeton Review’s best colleges in the Northeast, Midwest, Southeast and West.
73. 2007 Best Universities by Region: Browse universities that offer opportunities for degrees up to Master’s level in the Midwest, North, South and West here.
74. The Top Midwest Colleges: This website ranks and provides information for Midwestern colleges like Carleton College, St. Olaf College, Kalamazoo College and others.
75. Baccalaureate Colleges (West): If you want to go to college in a state like Texas, Oklahoma or Hawaii, check out this list.
76. Top 10 Southern Colleges by Salary Potential: PayScale rates Rice University, Georgetown, and Duke as offering the most successful career preparation and prospects for students.
77. Best Schools in California by Salary Potential: California has a plethora of colleges and universities to choose from. Use this list to find the one that will help you land a great job after graduation.
78. Baccalaureate Colleges (Midwest) Rankings: This 2009 list ranks Taylor University, Ohio Northern University and Augustana in the top 3.

Private Schools and Liberal Arts Universities

If you’ve decided that you want a liberal arts education, check out these rankings.

79. 100 Best Values in Private Colleges: Not all private schools are out of your reach. Find the best value schools here.
80. Liberal Arts Colleges: Amherst College tops the 2009 list. Find out the rest of the schools that are ranked by U.S. News and World Report here.
81. Top Colleges: Four-Year Liberal Arts Colleges in the U.S.: This guide reviews popularly ranked schools like Amherst College and Middlebury College.
82. Top Liberal Arts Colleges by Salary Potential: Bucknell University, Colgate University and Amherst College prepare students for high paying salaries, according to this ranking.

Public Schools

These rankings only feature public schools, so you don’t have to waste your time sorting through schools that won’t appeal to you.

83. 100 Best Values in Public Colleges: Kiplinger’s list is a great resource for students operating on a budget.
84. Top Public Schools: National Universities: More than 65 public universities like UVA, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor and College of William and Mary are ranked here.
85. Top Public Universities: Here you’ll find reviews of some of the best state-funded universities, like Georgia Tech, UCLA, and UNC - Chapel Hill.
86. Top State Universities by Salary Potential: PayScale reports that graduates from University of California, Berkeley, UVA and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo earn competitive salaries.

Art Schools

For rankings of art schools, turn to this list.

87. Best Graduate Schools Fine Arts: RISDE, Yale and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago are ranked in the top 3 on this list.
88. The Best Design Schools in the World: BusinessWeek has ranked 60 design schools "from Arizona State to Zollverein."
89. Design School Rankings: This article reviews different rankings systems and explains the methodology used for ranking design schools.
90. Top Creative Schools: StudentsReview ranks Dartmouth, University of California - Irvine and Brown University among the top creative schools in the country.

Engineering Schools

Here you’ll find rankings of engineering schools in the U.S.

91. Engineering School Rankings: Review rankings criteria and lists from different websites here.
92. Best Engineering Schools: Find out how U.S. News and World Report ranked the country’s engineering schools in 2008.
93. Top Engineering Schools: You might be surprised by the schools that top this list.

Graduate Schools

Graduate students will find that these rankings and lists are very helpful.

94. America’s Best Graduate Schools: Browse graduate schools by academic discipline here.
95. 2008 Best Graduate Schools and Programs: Browse graduate programs in education, engineering, health, science, social science and the humanities.
96. America’s Top Grad Schools: Read CBS’ report here.
97. The Top American Research Universities: View reports from 2000-2006.
98. PhDs.org: The Customized Graduate School Rankings tool will help you find the best program and school for your goals.

Miscellaneous

For even more college rankings and lists, visit these sites.

99. Study Abroad Program Search: Peterson’s list can help you find the best schools with the best study abroad options.
100. Top 10 Schools with the Happiest Students: According to this list, students at Clemson University and Brown University are the happiest college students in the U.S.

By Alisa Miller

College sports fans are dedicated to their teams and love finding out the latest information, news, rumors, and more when it comes to their teams and players. To make it easier to find your favorite topics when it comes to college sports, this listing includes 100 college sports blogs you won’t want to miss. From football to baseball to hockey, you will find something here.

Football

These blogs will keep you updated on everything happening in the world of college football.

1. Fanblogs.com. This collaborative blog is all about football, including bowl game schedules, interviews, and the requisite Sunday morning armchair coaching.
2. College Football Resource. Read opinions about college football playoffs, get power rankings, and watch live blog video.
3. HeismanPundit.com. Learn everything you could want to know about the Heisman including the history and origin of the award to current Heisman contenders.
4. SEC Football Insight(er). Written by a sports journalist, this blog focuses on information and opinion about Southeastern Conference football.
5. TheWizofOdds.com. Read about all things college football on this blog that also offers a podcast and links to other blog podcasts.
6. In The Bleachers. Not only can you read about college football on this blog, but you can also access the popular podcast here as well.
7. NCAA Football Fanhouse. Sponsored by AOL, this collaborative blog brings you news, opinions, and more on college football.
8. Dodds and Ends. This blog features mostly college football, but also delves into other college sports like baseball and hockey.
9. Mr. College Football. This journalist writes opinion and news on college football in this blog from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
10. SEC Football Blogger. If SEC football is your game, check out this blog for all the latest including pick and predictions.
11. College Game Balls. This college football blog brings you rankings, news, video, and more.
12. View from North America. While this is technically a general sports blog, the focus is mostly on college football.

Basketball

College hoops fans will find these blog useful when it comes to staying in the loop.

13. NCAA Basketball Fanhouse. Like their football sister site, this AOL-sponsored blog provides news and more about college basketball.
14. Hoops on Campus. This college basketball blog also hits on other college sports news, especially in the off-season.
15. Burlison’s World. This long-time college basketball writer blogs about basketball and more here.
16. 35 Seconds. From news to recruiting and everything in between, this blog tells all about college basketball.
17. YOCO :: College Basketball. Read news and commentary on college basketball at this blog. They do take a break during the summer, but don’t worry, they return in the fall.
18. College Hoops Gazette. Carolina basketball fans will love this site that provides information on all things basketball–and even a few other topics.
19. The Bracket Board. This blog offers analysis of teams by considering NCAA selection criteria standards instead of merely relying on the polls.
20. March Madness All Season. Get predictions, analysis and more on this blog written by a freelance college basketball writer.
21. Hoopville. This news aggregator provides all the headlines that have to do with college basketball news.
22. Notes From A Basketball Junkie. Get analyses, predictions, and more from this blog with a focus on Mid-American Conference news.
23. The Dagger. This blog brings you up-to-date information, news, and more on college basketball.

Baseball

If college baseball is your game, stay on top of it all with these blogs.

24. The College Baseball Blog. Find out about college baseball games, players, team information, and more at this blog.
25. Baseball America College. Get news and updates on college baseball with this blog.
26. ESPN College Baseball Blog. Check out this new ESPN blog that provides news and analysis of college baseball.
27. Yard Barker College Baseball. This blog offers news, information, gossip, video and more on college baseball.
28. Big Ten Hardball. If it’s Big 10 and it’s baseball, then this blog will give you the latest news.
29. Black College Baseball. This blog brings the latest from HBCU baseball teams including news, statistics, and MLB draftees.
30. Rounding Third. As much for college ball players as for the fans, this blog is all about helping players get to the next level beyond college ball.
31. Baseball Factory Blog. This blog offers information about the college recruiting process with plenty of information for students, parents, and fans.

Hockey

Find out the latest in college hockey with the following blogs.

32. Western College Hockey. If you want news from both Central College Hockey Association and Western Collegiate Hockey Association, this blog will give you the information you want.
33. Western College Hockey II. The sister blog to the previous one, this blog offers longer posts including roster information, in depth previews, and more.
34. College Hockey News Blog. Get news, updates, and analyses on college hockey at this blog written by veteran hockey journalists.
35. Inside College Hockey Podcasts. Read the summary of each podcast as well as get links to listen to the full articles on this site.
36. The World of Junior Hockey. Anything from high school to college gets coverage here with information about hockey players making it to the professional level.
37. Michigan College Hockey. While this blog definitely has a slant towards Michigan hockey, you will also find news relating to the rest of college hockey as well.
38. The College Hockey (& Other Stuff) Blog. Get news and updates on college hockey (men’s and women’s) as well as various other information here.

Women’s Basketball

Stay on top of all that is happening in women’s basketball with these blogs.

39. Women’s Hoops Blog. This blog keeps you updated with all the news in women’s college basketball.
40. Mechelle Voepel. This ESPN writer covers women’s college basketball among other things in her personal blog.
41. girlsbasketballrecruit. Read profiles of college basketball players and recruiting news at this blog.
42. BB-BLOG. Find SEC women’s basketball news and information at this blog that invites comments to keep the dialog open.
43. She’s Got Game. With a strong emphasis on women’s college basketball, this blog brings news of the sport.
44. UConn Women’s Hoops Blog. Get information on women’s basketball at University of Connecticut with this blog.

Not Just One Sport

If you just love college sports and like a more well-rounded approach to your news and information, these blogs will keep you up-to-date on all the sports.

45. The Quad. This blog from the New York Times touches on all things college sport related from the Heisman to March Madness.
46. Sportsday College Sports Blog. From the Dallas Morning News, this blog discusses college sports with an emphasis on Texas and Big 12 teams.
47. Dodgy At Best. With a focus on college football and basketball, this blog also touches on golf, soccer, horse racing, and more.
48. College Sports Blog. From the Boston Globe, this blog brings you information, news, and more on college sports with a Boston perspective.
49. NCAA Double-A Zone. Read this official blog of the NCAA for information and news that pertain to college sports.
50. CollegeSportsInfo News. From football and basketball and beyond, get all the latest news on college sports.
51. SportsBiz - The Business of Sports Illuminated. Economics and sports meet in this blog that not only looks at college sports, but all sports.
52. I’m Writing Sports. Written by a journalism student, this blog features all sports with a heavy emphasis on college news and events.
53. College Sports Blog. College sports and TV intersect in this blog that keeps you up-to-date with all the sports on TV and news pertaining to showing college sports on TV.
54. College Sports Pro. These two Ohio fans blog about all things college sports, but with an emphasis on football and basketball.
55. College Sports Blog. Get news and more on college sports with a Southern California perspective from this blog courtesy of The Press-Enterprise.
56. College Sports Blog. This news aggregator keeps you up-to-date on all the college sports news available.
57. Bleacher Report. This "open source sports network" allows journalists to write and participants to edit these sports articles to ensure you always get the best quality news articles.

By School

Your favorite school may be among these blogs that highlight a particular college and their athletes.

58. Burnt Orange Nation. University of Texas fans will enjoy following this blog to learn all the latest on UT sports as well as get rosters, stats, and schedules.
59. Roll ‘Bama Roll. If you are a Crimson Tide fan, you won’t want to miss this blog that covers all sports at University of Alabama.
60. And the Valley Shook. This "unofficial" blog of the LSU Tigers discusses football, baseball, and more as the seasons change.
61. A Sea of Blue. For University of Kentucky sports fans, this blog brings the best of the Big Blue.
62. The Auburn Beat. This blog will help you keep up with all the latest news from the world of sports at Auburn University.
63. Black Heart Gold Pants. Iowa Hawkeye fans will enjoy the posts on this blog that touch mostly on football and basketball–and include plenty of funny sports photos that have received a little help.
64. Mullen’s Vol Blog. The University at Tennessee athletics gets coverage on this blog written by Bryan Mullens with The Tennessean.
65. Dawg Sports. Find out what is happening with the Georgia Bulldogs when it comes to football, baseball, and basketball on this blog.
66. MGoBlog. Get news as it pertains to Michigan sports–including football, basketball, hockey, and more.
67. Orange and Blue Hue. Gater fans will love this collaborative blog that brings you news and opinions on all sports things from University of Florida.
68. Razorback Blogs. This blog serves a duel purpose–to share the news out about Arkansas Razorbacks sports (especially football) and to share links to other Razorback blogs.
69. Vanderbilt Sports Online. Read about news and events as well as opinions on all Vanderbilt sports at this blog.
70. Double Extra Point. Huskers will enjoy reading this blog that focuses on football from the University of Nebraska and beyond.
71. The Williams and Hyatt Show Blog. This blog is an extension of the Sports Radio 1340 from Lubbock and mostly features sports from Texas Tech.
72. Domer Sports Report. If Notre Dame sports is your thing, check out this blog that features football and men’s and women’s basketball, among other athletic topics.
73. Down with Goldy. Get all the latest on Golden Gopher basketball on this blog.
74. Bruins Nation. Bruins fans can keep up with all the sports news including baseball, basketball, football, and more.
75. Blue Devil Nation. Read about all the latest news when it comes to Duke basketball and football on this blog.
76. Hall of Canes. Miami Hurricanes sports news, analysis, and opinion is featured on this blog.
77. House of Sparky. Get news, gossip, and more on this blog that brings you the latest out of Arizona State’s athletics including baseball, basketball, and football.
78. Building the Dam. This unofficial Oregon State University blog not only brings you the most popular sports news, you can also read about news from under-reported sports as softball, gymnastics, and more.
79. USC Blitz. Get recaps, analysis, videos, and more on this blog dedicated to USC football.
80. I Am The 12th Man. Aggie fans can get their fix on all the news from Texas A&M here.
81. Card Chronicle. From basketball to baseball to football, find out what is going on with the Louisville Cardinals at this blog.
82. Block U. This unofficial blog of the Utah Running Utes covers gymnastics to baseball and everything in between.

By Conference

No matter which conference you follow, these blogs will help you keep up with everything that is happening.

83. ESPN - Big 12. Get all the latest news on the Big 12 teams from this blog sponsored by ESPN.
84. ESPN - Pac-10. Written by journalist Ted Miller, this blog features all the news coming out of the Pac-10.
85. ACC Basketblog. Despite the title, this blog delivers information about football and basketball news happening in the ACC.
86. Patriot League. Get all the latest on sports from the Patriot League including women’s soccer, football, field hockey, and more.
87. NBE Basketball Report. If it’s happening in the Big East and is about basketball, you can find out about it here.
88. Big Tenet. You’ll find news and discussion about Big 10 sports on this blog.
89. The Rivalry, Esq.. Big 10 football is the focus of this blog with plenty of updates, opinion, and analysis.
90. ESPN-SEC. Chris Low, former writer for The Tennessean, covers SEC news, offers opinion, and more.
91. Centennial Conference. Get news and information about basketball, baseball, field hockey, lacrosse, and more happening in the Centennial Conference from this blog.
92. Team Speed Kills. This SEC blog covers baseball, basketball, football, and even a little poker.

Women Bloggers

Sports aren’t just for men. These women bloggers offer great insight and information on college sports.

93. Huskies Football. This blog offers an excellent insight to football at University of Washington as well as some comment on college football in general.
94. Sports, Media & Society. Written by a sports journalist and professor, this blog focuses on women in sports–often as it pertains to college.
95. Cute Sports. Offering sports from a woman’s perspective, this blog focuses mostly on sports from University of Wisconsin, but also touches on a few other Wisconsin-centric sports.
96. Getting to First Base. Written by a student at the University of Nebraska, this blog touches on a variety of topics including Cornhusker games and her dearest love, baseball.
97. The Sports Diva Magazine. If you are an Ohio sports fan, check out this collaborative blog written by women that frequently posts information and opinion about college sports in Ohio.
98. Gridiron Goddess. This sports-loving, former student from USC writes mostly about football and mostly about college football on her blog.
99. Joanna’s Longhorn Baseball Page. Full of updates, recaps, and photos of the games, this blog offers everything for Texas baseball fans.
100. Women’s Sports Blog. Written by a woman with a focus on women’s sports, this blog often includes news and information about women’s college sports, including basketball, soccer, and field hockey.

By Christina Laun

With modern technology, you can find new and exciting ways to contrubute to your community and the world right from your computer. These 100 social networks offer the chance to get involved, make a difference and meet people that share your ideals and ambitions. You won’t just be building good karma, but also making a real impact on the world of tomorrow.

Make the World Greener

These sites can be a great place to find information and individuals who are working towards solving environmental issues around the globe.

1. WikiaGreen: If you’ve got an interest in green issues why not contribute to this wiki community? With over 729 already uploaded since March 2008 the site is a great resource for those looking to instigate change.
2. Dianovo: Connect with others who are looking to make an environmental change on this social network.
3. GreenBin: This site is a great place to share your ideas and causes with a community of people interested in sustainable and green living.
4. Fivelimes: The discussion board on this site is a helpful place to find out about green products, services and news all over the nation.
5. GreenBusiness.net: Owners of green businesses can come together and discuss important issues on this networking site.
6. Green Change: Join like-minded individuals in this community that’s working towards greener, global changes.
7. Greenvoice: Check out GreenVoice to create a campaign of your own about green issues. Current campaigns involve saving bio diversity, considering the most green ways to travel and encouraging sustainable mining.
8. GenGreenLife: If you’re looking for jobs, opportunities, groups or businesses in your area that are green this site is an essential resource. Join to create your own personalized homepage.
9. Greenopolis: Greenopolis is a social networking site that promotes connections between everyday people, communities, organizations, schools and businesses that want to work towards a greener future.
10. Creative Citizen: Work on some creative solutions and ideas for environmental issues on this community oriented site.
11. Veggie Community: If you’re a veggie or vegan and you want to spread the word about your cause and network with other like-minded individuals, check out this online community.

Affect Climate Change and Energy

Global warming is a hot button issues these days and you can learn how to make an impact on the situation through these networks and communities.

12. CarbonRally: Compete with others on this networking site to reduce global warming by undertaking simple challenges.
13. BeGreenNow: Take an active role in reducing your carbon emissions by joining this site and tracking your footprint.
14. ZeroFootprint: Businesses can join this community to learn more about what they can do to reduce their carbon footprint.
15. Celsias: Stating that climate change isn’t a "spectator sport" this site connects individuals and groups with action plans that can help work towards slowing global warming.
16. AlternativeEnergy.com: Check out this site to spread the world, along with thousands of others, about alternative sources of energy like wind and solar.
17. OffsetX: This site doesn’t just deal with offsetting carbon emissions but just about anything else negative you could think of.
18. 2People: If you’re feeling concerned about global warming, this online network can be a great place to start doing something about it. It aims to connect people to help build real solutions to climate change.
19. WorldCoolers: Join this network to receive updates on global warming action and news right on your desktop.
20. Out for a Ride: One way to help put a cap on all those carbon emissions is to ride your bike instead of driving. This site allows users to connect with other bikers, track the miles they’ve rode, and even upload pictures of their bikes.
21. Edenbee: This community is dedicated to stopping global climate change. On their site, you can track your carbon footprint, suggest ways to reduce it and much more.

Encourage Social Responsibility

These sites encourage individuals and businesses to take responsibility for their impact on the world and work together to make a difference.

22. JustMeans: This site allows users to talk directly to companies about their environmental impact and get feedback on what they’re doing to be more sustainable.
23. Zoosa: Here professionals can match their interest in specific issues related to social responsibility with the amount of free time and skills they have to give.
24. Alonovo: Join this community to get the latest in products that are earth-friendly and socially conscious. You’ll also find places to read about ethics, the environment, commerce and more.
25. OsoEco: OsoEco allows consumers to research and share information on earth friendly products and services with other like-minded individuals.
26. GoLoco: Carpooling can be a great way to save resources and live greener. This network allows you to find others who need a ride so you can connect and share the journey.
27. Care2: This great online site provides users with a range of tools to help them make a difference in the world. You can donate to causes, post petitions, start a group and find new and exciting ways to take action every day.
28. EcoSpace: This site is home to a conscious community of people who want to take responsibility over their impact on the world.
29. DotheRightThing: Looking to find social responsible companies? This site allows members to rank companies that have worked to make the biggest difference.
30. Lime: Connect with others on the issue of healthy living, green activism and living sustainably in this site’s forums.
31. MakeMeSustainable: Join this site to get help becoming more sustainable and encourage your friends to do the same.

Give to Charities and Nonprofits

Make your charitable donations count on these helpful networks and communities.

32. Networking for Charity: Want to meet someone important? This site may allow you to, while getting loads of money for charity at the same time.
33. Just Cause: This site is home to hundreds of inspirational stories about people who’ve made a difference. Sign up to share your own stories and get in touch with others who share your passion.
34. Helpalot: Check out this online network to find charities that have been approved as trustworthy so you know your donation won’t go somewhere you hadn’t intended.
35. CharityMile: If you love to run or compete in athletic events why not do it for a good cause? This site unites those who get their workouts working towards raising money for a cause.
36. My Charity Page: Post information about your charity on this site and you’ll be able to get donations, share your message and maybe even find some new volunteers.
37. YouthNet: This completely online charity based in the UK brings together young people to inspire them to make a difference in their communities at home and abroad.
38. Network for Good: Create a profile on this site to track and share your donations to charities.
39. TechSoup: Join this community of individuals who are dedicated to using technology to help nonprofit organizations.
40. Make the Difference Network: Check out this site to post information about causes dear to you or to connect with existing charities the need money and help to keep going.
41. CharityVillage: Those interested in nonprofits in Canada will find all the information they need on this site. With news, events, volunteering, job openings and more it’s a great place to find the opportunities you need to make a difference.
42. Razoo: For those planning to make a charitable donation, Razoo can be a valuable first stop. It allows users to research charities and plan and manage giving and users can create their own giving portfolios.
43. Kiva.org: If you have a little extra money you aren’t quite sure what to do with, try giving it away charitably on this site. Users can connect with charities and entrepreneurs who need loans and funding to get their projects off the ground.
44. BringLight.com: This site allows you to post your own charitable organization and get donations or to help you to be sure that your charitable donations are going to the causes you feel most strongly about.
45. FirstGiving: If you have an organization that could use a little funding to get off the ground, expand or just keep up, this site makes it easy to connect with others who want to donate.
46. Network for Social Change: This UK-based group is a great place to meet up with organizations and people who are looking for funding and support for their non-profit work.
47. ChangingThePresent.org: Check out this site to make charitable giving easy or to help your favorite organization get more funding.
48. DonorsChoose.org: Help support education through this online community. Teachers will post projects they need materials for, users select projects they want to sponsor and students get the benefit of learning.
49. SchoolKidsComeFirst.com: You can help make sure your funds do directly where they matter most with this program. You’ll pick projects to fund in the classroom so students get the opportunities and education they deserve.
50. SixDegrees.org: If you want to take a more subtle route to raising money for charity, create a badge for your cause on this site and post it on your blog or website.
51. Clarity Channel: This site is home to numerous articles contributed by nonprofit professionals. If you work for this type of organization and want to express your ideas in a community forum check out the site.
52. GlobalGiving: Here you’ll find a network that connects donors with community projects that are in need of support.

Volunteering

If you don’t have money to give, why not give your time? These sites help hook up volunteers with volunteering opportunities.

53. Student Volunteer Network: UK students looking to make a difference in the world can join this network to find out about what volunteering opportunities are out there.
54. Outreach International: This organization maintains a large volunteer network that can send you to places all over the world to help those in need.
55. VolunteerMatch.org: Create an account on this site to get matched up with nonprofit organizations that need some volunteers in your area.
56. Idealist: Want to find a volunteer position or work within a nonprofit organization? This site maintains a huge listing as well as groups and forums where you can talk to and network with others.
57. Nabuur.com: Get in the swing of volunteering through this online network. It helps to hook up volunteers with organizations that can really use the help.
58. Making Contact: Everyone goes through hard times and this network is all about hooking up families with a member affected by a disability or serious medical condition with others who’ve gone through the same thing. Volunteer your own services or find someone who can be of help to you on the site.
59. good2gether: This site allows nonprofit organizations to advertise themselves and find funding, volunteers and more without spending a dime.
60. VolunteerGenie: If you live in the UK and you want to volunteer but just haven’t found the right place, check out this network of hundreds of organizations in need of help.
61. ServeNet.org: Check out this site to find news, opportunities and information about volunteering in schools and promoting youth leadership.

Good Deeds and Helping Hands

These networks can help you lend a little support and assistance to those who need it.

62. b-wire: b-wire provides a forum for users to network by offering help or advice to others. You can post an item you need help with or hook up others with assistance through the site.
63. MyGoodDeed: Join this site to get inspired, network with others, and change the world one good deed at a time.
64. Akoha: This social reality game allows users to earn points by completing real-life missions that promote doing good deeds and spreading happiness to others.
65. Good Deeds International: Become part of this inspirational network that aims to encourage people to good deeds the world over with a special focus on working to stop child trafficking.
66. Good Deed Foundation: If you’re looking for little ways you can make a difference, check out this site. It gives people simple ways to address poverty and climate change through connections with nonprofits and businesses.
67. Big Carrot: This site allows users to come together and pool their resources to provide a prize to those who can help solve issues both small and large.
68. Daily Strength: Here you’ll find support and help if you’re in need of it or a great forum to provide your advice, reassurances and support to those who are in need of it, helping you make a difference one person at a time.

Politics

If you want to change the world through political action, these sites are a great place to meet others and share ideas.

69. essembly: This non-partisan network allows politically minded individuals to come together, take action and support shared causes.
70. RedBlueAmerica: use this site to find out how people from other political groups feel about particular issues through articles and discussion with other members.
71. ConnecttoElect: Not sure what candidates best support your political views and beliefs? This site can help match you to the right person and allows you to talk with other supporters.
72. Politweets: Turn your twitter into a political forum with this site.
73. Policosmos: Whether you’re an everyday citizen or an elected official this site aims to bring you together to talk about the issues that are important.
74. tellmeyouridea: Have an idea you think will change the world? Share it with everyone on this site.
75. MondoGlobo: For those looking to change the current systems in place and fight authority you think is misplaced, this network is a great place to meet like-minded individuals.
76. Polzoo: Here you’ll find both political editorial and some great social networking features.
77. CreateDebate: Don’t just post your own ideas, defend them in a public forum as well. This site’s community provides a great place to engage in debates of every kind.
78. Political Networker: If you’re looking for some help organizing campaigns and political networks, give this site a try.
79. CareBadges.com: You can join this site to create badges for your cause that can be posted on blogs and sites all over the web. If you don’t have your own cause to promote you can use the already posted badges.
80. MAPLight: Want to know where politicians are getting their financing? This site allows users to see the details as well as talk to one another through comments.
81. Friction TV: Get on your soapbox on this video sharing site. Upload your videos, make comments and share your thoughts with users from around the world.

Social Change

Check out these get networks to connect, learn and work towards a wide spectrum of issues that affect societies around the world.

82. Change.org: Join this network to learn about causes, connect with people and nonprofit organizations, and start taking action to motivate change in a range of issues.
83. CauseCast: This site is like YouTube with a cause and allows users to post videos and information about the things they feel most passionate about.
84. Gaia Community: This social network’s goal is to inspire you and help you find a cause that you can work towards to make the world a better place.
85. UnLtdWorld: Those interested in social entrepreneurship can connect on this social networking site. Simply sign up and you’ll get access to groups, photos, chat and more.
86. World Neighbors: Get involved with this network to help charities through shopping, volunteer to help with projects and meet others who want to affect social change around the world.
87. Changents: This network connects agents of change with backers so that they get the support, encouragement and help they need to be successful in their ventures.
88. Virgance: This site operates a couple of networks. Carrotmob helps businesses to make sustainable choices, Lend Me Some Sugar allows network members to decide where charitable funds go and GreenFund is a growing venture capital project that plans on investing in green projects around the world.
89. TakingITGlobal: This site offers a community that connects youth for inspiration, information, and opportunities to get involved and take action in their local and global communities.
90. DoSomething.org: This site hopes to leverage the power of the internet to get teens and young adults involved in world changing activities offline.
91. WiserEarth: This network is dedicated to non-governmental organizations, businesses, governments, and individuals who are working to solve issues like climate change, poverty and conservation.
92. Orion Grassroots Network: Starting a grassroots organization can be a great way to get your cause off the ground. This site allows these organizations to connect with one another, spread their message and recruit new members.
93. Changemakers: This site encourages users to innovate solutions to world problems, collaborate with others, and learn more about how you can help.
94. TED: Subtitled "ideas worth sharing", this site allows users to create their own profile and post their causes and listen to talks by inspirational speakers from around the world.
95. ChangeEverything: Join this online network to talk about big changes happening in the world and explore ways that you can be a part of them.
96. igloo.org: This site brings together people and organizations that want to use online technology to work towards improving governments around the world.
97. OneWorldTV: Creative types with a cause can make the most of this community. It allows users to upload their videos about places that need changes and work that’s being done.
98. EMwomen: This site is dedicated to empowering women. Join their social network to talk, share and get ideas from other women out there.
99. SocialVibe: Check out this site to support your favorite causes, find sponsors and create badges you can place on your blog, profile and more.
100. Causes on Facebook: Don’t just use your Facebook profile to stalk exes and chat online while you’re at work, use it to make a difference too by getting involved in the causes that are offered on the site.

By Christina Laun

If you love to do research but don’t have the degree or credentials to be truly called a scholar, then you probably fall into the category of a hobbyist scholar. This doesn’t mean that you can’t take advantage of the numerous resources for scholars online. They can help you with anything you might be interested in finding out more about, from science to your family genealogy. We’ve put together a list of 100 of these resources to get you started on your next just-for-fun research project.

Search Tools

These online tools can be a great place to start your research, with many focusing solely on academic publications and information.

1. Google Scholar: Narrow your Google searches down to scholarly results with this special version of Google geared towards papers, abstracts and citations in a variety of subjects.
2. Online Journals Search Engines: This scientific search engine allows you to make searches in a wide range of online databases (60 altogether) with just one search query.
3. Research Crawler: Use this search engine to find relevant images, articles, videos news and more that can help you in your research.
4. Footnote: Want to find original source documents? This site provides a place where users can upload their documents and people like you can browse them to find a whole wealth of information not available anywhere else.
5. InfoMine: This search engine makes it possible to look for scholarly information in fields ranging from business to the performing arts in one easily accessible place.
6. CiteULike: Search through this site to find articles that others have marked as being worthy of note or citation.
7. Clusty: Clusty is a great alternative to a traditional search engine, combing through several search engines to give you integrated results, clustered by topic so they’re easy to use.
8. Trexy: If you want to be able to save your search queries, Trexy makes it easy, so you won’t have to do the same search twice.
9. Cite Steer: This site is home to a collection of scientific information that you can search using this handy tool.
10. Scirus: With Scirus, you’ll find just what you’re looking for in science and technology articles.
11. Academic Index: This specialized search engine makes it easy to get only reputable results in your searches.
12. Fields of Knowledge: Don’t waste your time with less than reputable search results. This search engine of sorts gives you results filtered through the lens of professors, academics and experts who know what’s good and what not to waste your time with.

Reference Sites

Use these reference sites to find out basic information you’ll need in your research.

13. Bartlett’s Quotations: Got a great quotation in mind but can’t remember who said it? Check out this site for comprehensive listings of well-known quotations.
14. Roget’s Thesaurus: If you find yourself using the same word over and over again, mix things up by using this popular thesaurus.
15. Alta Vista Babelfish: It’s likely that you’ll need to translate things at some point during your research and Alta Vista makes it easy to do so, both for single phrases and whole webpages.
16. Merriam Webster Dictionary: Avoid the embarrassment of using a word that means something different than you think it does by checking with this online dictionary first.
17. Diana Hacker: Diana Hacker publishes a variety of style manuals and you can find a good amount of information on conforming to things like MLA or Chicago Manual of Style on her site.
18. Virtual Reference Shelf: Need reference materials online? This site provides everything you could possibly need in one easy-to-use place.
19. Infoplease: This site is home to encyclopedias, dictionaries, useful facts, and much more on a huge range of subjects making it a great resource for quick searches and fact checks.
20. Citizendium: If you have your doubts about the accuracy of Wikipedia, check out this site as an alternative. It’s written with much stricter editing rules and the full discloser of the writer’s name.
21. CredoReference: Search multiple reference sites at once with the integrated search features offered through this site.
22. RefDesk: This site is a great place to check those little facts from science to historical information.

Library Tools

Searching through library material is easier than ever with these online tools.

23. Library of Congress Online Database: Make the most of one of the biggest libraries in the world with this search feature for the LIbrary of Congress. You can browse through their impressive digital collections and see what they have stored away in the building itself as well.
24. WorldCat: WorldCat is an indispensable tool for anyone planning to do research in a library. Simply type in the name of the book you’re looking for and you’ll get a list of all the libraries in the world and in your area that carry it.
25. Smithsonian Libraries: The Smithsonian has loads to offer through it’s online collections, and you can search and browse through them using this site.
26. LibWeb: Need to find a library in your area? This site provides a fairly comprehensive guide to libraries around the world and makes it easy to get right to their webpage.
27. National Library of Medicine: For those who are researching medical issues, this large national library is an indispensable resource.
28. Library Elf: Don’t get stuck with late fees on all those library books you’ve got checked out. This handy tool makes it easy to keep track of where you’ve checked things out and when they’re due.
29. National Gallery of Art: If art is more in line with your research, the National Gallery of Art has a great collection, some of which you can search through and see online.
30. Internet Public Library: On the IPL site, you’ll find all kinds of resources in fields from business to science, reference materials, and even books you can read online.
31. Gateway to Library Catalogs: This site makes it easy to find the online access points for library catalogs all over the US and beyond.

Databases and Journals

These sites are great destinations for find a wide range of information, from scientific research projects to art historical papers.

32. Intute: Don’t spend your time searching blindly through the Internet for reputable and relevant resources. Intute has a great database of resources they’ve hand selected to be used in research and education in science, the humanities, social science and technology.
33. All Academic: This search engine, maintained by Dr. Michael Bell, allows researchers to search through several major online databases at once.
34. Journal Seek: Journal Seek is the "largest completely categorized database of freely available journal information available on the internet" making it easy for you to find what you need at no cost to you.
35. Article City: Check out Article City to find a large collection of articles available to you free of charge from sites all over the Internet.
36. Directory of Open Access Journals: With this helpful tool, you’ll be able to easily search through the range of free journals that are available on the Web.
37. DocSource: Geared towards scientific and medical information, this site allows you to search by author or title to find relevant information available on the Web or through ordering a copy of the document.
38. Fulltext Resources Online: This site brings together almost 41,000 full-text resources from newspapers, journals and magazines of all kinds.
39. HighBeam Research: This search engine is an awesome tool, allowing you to look through articles and information from sites like the New York Times, NPR, The Economist and much more.
40. Highly Cited: Have someone that just keeps showing up as a cited source in the things you’re reading but have no idea who they are? This site provides a way to find the individuals, departments and labs that have made significant contributions to science and research.
41. Internet Archive: The Internet Archive is a collection of important websites and cultural information in a digital form, giving you easy access for research.
42. ERIC: The Education Resources Information Center is a useful place to start looking for information related to education in the United States, and the online database makes searching through it’s collections easier and more productive.

Note Taking

These helpful online tools can be a great place to keep track of your research information and jot down your thoughts as you go.

43. Evernote: Evernote is one of the most comprehensive online note taking applications, allowing users to clip, save and share information from the Web as well as providing access online and off to notes.
44. JotCloud: If you need to jot down some simple notes while using the web, this sticky note app can be a great way to do that with very little effort.
45. SpringNote: If you need to do more than jot a quite note down, then consider this note taking application. It’s similar in format to a regular word processor and comes complete with templates and plugins to make customization of your content simple.
46. UberNote: With features like archived changes to notes and the ability to integrate tasks and bookmarks into notes, this application can be a great tool to keep track of research information.
47. Luminotes: For those who’d like to integrate their notes into a wiki, this site can be a perfect solution. You can even create hyperlinks in your one part of your notes that link to information in another part of your notes.
48. Stikkit: Stikkit sticky notes are much smarter than your usual little yellow paper note. Over time, they gather information from the content you jot down on them and can put together to-do lists, contacts, and much more, cutting down on the amount of work that you have to do.
49. FruitNotes: If you don’t have your computer with you but still want to get an idea down try using this program. Users simply call a number and get their voice messages recorded for use later.
50. Notefish: This note taking app is full of cool features like drag and drop, resizing, coloring and sharing your notes. If you find yourself hooked on it, you can even add a plug-in to Firefox to further integrate it into your research process.
51. MyStickies: Just because you’re researching on the Web doesn’t mean that you can put sticky notes all over the material you’re looking at. This program allows you to decorate web pages with your personal notes so you can come back to them later and remember what was important or relevant.
52. WebAsyst Notes: Part of a larger online suites of programs, this notebook allows users to jot down thought, save them, share them, and organize them for later.
53. NoteMesh: If you’re looking for an easy way to share your notes with someone else for advice or collaboration, this online tool uses wikis to make it easy to work together on a collection of information.
54. YourDraft: For those who have gotten to the point of creating a draft of their work, this site makes it easy to type one up and share it with an editor who can give you helpful feedback.

Bookmarking and Citation

Even amateur scholars need to keep track of research and cite their sources to avoid plagiarism. These tools can make it easy to do both.

55. Diigo: Diigo is a powerful tool for research, allowing users to highlight websites, add sticky notes, create annotations and more.
56. Ottobib: If you hate making bibliographies, this site can make it simple. Just enter the ISBN of the resource you’re using and get a citation generated in 5 different formats.
57. Del.icio.us: One of the most popular bookmarking sites, Del.icio.us makes it easy to record useful sites for further investigation and sharing.
58. Qipit: Turn your mobile phone into a digital copy machine with this helpful tool. Simply take a picture of a text document with your phone or camera and the program will help you translate it into PDF form.
59. WizLite: WizLite takes web highlighting to the next stage, not only allowing you to pull out interesting content with a highlighter but giving you the option to share or save your highlighted information as well.
60. Google Bookmarks: If you need to do research on several computers, consider getting Google Bookmarks. It allows you access to your favorite sites from any computer with an Internet connection.
61. Clipmarks: Instead of bookmarking an entire website, Clipmarks makes it possible to just clip the part of the site that you found interesting so you won’t have to search for it later.
62. Citation Machine: Check out this helpful tool for assistance in making citations in the correct form without any extra effort on your part.
63. BibMe: Just enter books, websites or journals into this online tool and it will automatically generate the appropriate citation.
64. Yahoo! Bookmarks: With features like drag and drop, Yahoo! makes it easy to organize your bookmarks and take them with you anywhere.
65. Chipmark: Chipmark offers a range of features from storing your bookmarks online to downloading them right to your own computer for use.
66. IKeepBookmarks.Com: With this site you can upload your bookmarks to the Web and have access to them from any computer, anywhere, making it simpler to take your research on the road with you.

To-Dos and Organization

Whether you want to keep track of your research project or just organize your thoughts, these tools can give you a leg up.

67. ToDoList: This simple to-do list application can make it easier to keep track of all the things you want to get done for a research project.
68. TreeLine: TreeLine can be an indispensable tool for the disorganized researcher. It allows users to store almost any kind of information in one easily accessible place, creating a small database that can be saved or printed for use.
69. TuxCards: TuxCards is a hierarchical notebook allowing you to keep track of your research in a format that highlights what is more important and what can get less attention.
70. FreeMind: If you need a little help mapping out your thoughts or brainstorming ideas, give this Java-based mind mapping program a try.
71. Bubbl.us: Check out this online mind mapping tool to help get your thoughts in order.
72. Listingly: This tool allows you to create lists about anything that you need and not only access them from your computer but share them and read them on your phone as well.
73. iPheed: Turn your iPhone into a helpful research tool with this program. It allows you to take notes and make lists on your computer and later access them right on your phone so you’ll have the information at your fingertips even when you’re on the go.
74. Manage My Ideas: Create an account on this site to help you create a digital collection of your ideas so they won’t get lost in the shuffle simply jotted down on a piece of paper.
75. VoodooPad Lite: This application is a great place to keep notes organized and it comes with a feature that many other apps don’t– you can access it right from your iPod.
76. Journler: Mac users can take advantage of this journaling software to help them keep track of daily progress, take notes, or create work plans.
77. ThinkTank: This site is designed to help organize a research project by generating possible topics and subtopics related to an idea.
78. iubo: If you’ve got a lot of digital information for your research, this can be a really helpful tool. It allows you to create your own search engine that will troll through all that information and allow you to easily find what you need.

Working Together

If you don’t plan on working alone on your project, these web tools make it easy to collaborate.

79. Campfire: Take your instant messaging to the next level with this tool. It makes it simple for groups to work together by chatting and sharing text, files and images.
80. Google Docs: For those with a Gmail account, this tool makes it super easy to create documents and share them with others for group editing and collaboration.
81. Thinkature: Want to work in real-time over the web? You can with Thinkature. You can chat, draw diagrams and share your ideas as they come to you.
82. Writeboard: Writeboard gives users the ability to create documents, share them with others, make changes and even roll back to previous versions.
83. Zoho Notebook: Part of a larger suite of tools, this application is perfect for working together on projects small and large.
84. Yakkle: From instant messaging to desktop sharing, this downloadable tool makes it easy to work with anyone, even if they’re a world away.
85. PBWiki: Wikis can be a great way to give easy access for a collaborative project and this site provides some of the best.

Browser Extensions

Trick out your browser with these extensions that can make it easy and pain-free to do research.

86. Zotero: Check out Zotero to organize, bookmark and even get help citing information you find on the Web right from your browser.
87. Customize Google: Don’t limit your searches just to Google. This extension allows you to easily get your search results from Google in Yahoo, Ask.com, Technorati, Wikipedia and others.
88. Read It Later: If you plan on doing a large amount of research you know you can’t read every page you come by right away. This tool makes it easy to save these bits of information for later when you have more time to read them by storing them in an easy-to-manage menu in your browser.
89. Yoono: Don’t browse in the dark ages. Yoono will suggest other webpages you might be interested in based on your browsing and makes it easy to save and find information you find relevant.
90. Bookstack: Just like you pile up books from the library to look through later, this tool lets you create a collection of sites to visit later when you have time to give them your full attention.
91. eReader: With great resources like project Gutenberg providing free ebooks, use this extension to make it easy to read them right in your browser.
92. Clusty Toolbar: Clusty makes it easier to search, allowing you to search several sites at once as well as giving you buttons for encyclopedias and dictionaries right from the web page you’re looking at.
93. Better Search: Better Search allows you to make your search engine experience a little better by adding previews and options to open search results in new tabs.
94. Snap Links: If you’re doing a search and more than one good site comes up, Snap Links allows you to open several search results at once.
95. Googlepedia: Install this add-on to get some helpful split screen information with your search results. For every search you do in Google, this extension will give you the relevant Wikipedia article as well.
96. gTranslate: For those pesky times when you come across a site that you think is really great but you can’t read it because it’s in a foreign language this tool is ideal, letting you easily make translations.
97. Book Burro: From time to time you’ll likely need to buy some books to further your research. This extension will give you results on where to get the best deal on the book you’re interested in buying.
98. HyperWords: Turn any word, anywhere into a hyperlink with this great extension, allowing you to easily look it up in a thesaurus, dictionary or encyclopedia.
99. AutoCopy: If you find yourself frequently using ctrl+alt+delete to copy information then this tool may save you some time. This tool adds anything you highlight to the clipboard so you can paste it into your word processor or email.
100. WiredMarker: If you’re addicted to your highlighter when you read a book then this tool is just for you. It allows you to easily highlight important information on any webpage you visit.

By Laura Milligan

All kinds of writers use the web for research, marketing and more. Our list of 100 different search tools can help you manage your business, become a better biz tech or web writer, find primary sources, look up translations, and find the more authoritative information out there with minimal effort. Bookmark your favorites to take full advantage of everything they have to offer.

Meta Search Engines

Meta search engines are especially useful because they bring maximum results to you efficiently and accurately.

1. Draze: Draze compares searches from Google, Yahoo and MSN all at once.
2. Dogpile: This multi-search engine features a toolbar, SearchSpy tool and more.
3. ChunkIt!: This sophisticated tool finds hidden content and is great for serious researchers.
4. Mamma: Let Mamma help your search. You can search for the web, videos, shopping pages, jobs, the Yellow Pages and more.
5. WebCrawler: This tool features a toolbar as well as the ability to search Google, Live Search, Yahoo! and Ask all at once.
6. Clusty: This meta search engine groups similar results together for easier browsing.
7. MsFreckles: Super organized writers can use MsFreckles to streamline their search and pull up all kinds of results, including definitions, text translations and more.
8. Trexy: Even absentminded writers can manage their research with Trexxy, a search tool that saves your memory without having to bookmark.
9. ixquick: This tool is very popular in Europe and keeps your personal information private.
10. Jux2: Find the most relevant information from Google and Yahoo! when you use this tool.

Favorites

These old and new favorites are worth using for general searches.

11. Google: Still one of the most popular tools, Google is fast and easy to use. Newest versions allow you to set up your own personal page, too.
12. Alexa: Use the general search tool while comparing site traffic and checking up on your competitors.
13. Live Search: MSN’s search has gotten quite a makeover. Live Search is a sleek design that can pull up web results, images, video, maps and more.
14. Yahoo!: Yahoo!’s shortcuts and individual channels make it easier to pinpoint what you’re looking for.
15. Wikia: For a simple, clean search that depends on community recommendations and input, Wikia is a good choice.

Business Writers

Biz tech writers and writers who work for marketing or public relations firms can use these tools to research new industry trends, stay on top of business news and more.

16. Jayde: This business-to-business engine can connect you to what competitors are doing and keep you current on the most up-to-date content, language and discourse in business.
17. ThomasNet: ThomasNet is primarily used to search for businesses and products, but writers can use it as a research tool to learn more about brands and business news.
18. TechWeb: This engine contains links and resources about business technology media.
19. Business.com: Writers can quickly learn about anything pertaining to business using this tool, helping them write with greater authority and understanding.
20. Zibb: Zibb is a global business engine that features channels like construction, retail, health care and medicine, agriculture, travel and more.

Web Writers

If your writing requires you to know about web references and trends, use these tools for guidance and information.

21. Webopedia: Look up computer and Internet-related definitions here.
22. search.internet.com: Search IT, developer and Internet terms and tutorials here.
23. Writer’s Web Topic Index and Search Engine: Look up articles, grammar and style guides and more here.
24. Marketing Terms: Look up Internet terms and web marketing definitions here.

Medical and Technical Writers

Medical and technical writers will find definitions, journal articles and more resources with these search engines.

25. Acronym finder: Search definitions of different acronyms and abbreviations here.
26. Questfinder: Get connected to authoritative websites only when you use Questfinder.
27. PubGene: Look up genes, proteins, biology terms and more here.
28. Healia: Healia connects you to medical journals, clinical trials and more for primary source materials.
29. OmniMedicalSearch: Look up conditions and diseases, medical news, images and more when you use this tool.
30. GoPubMd: Sort your searches more easily with this social medical search tool.
31. Nextbio: If you write for the life sciences industry, you’ll find lots of research support here.

Multimedia Engines

Give your writing another dimension when you integrate multimedia into your posts or pieces. You’ll also find interactive search engines in this list.

32. OAIster: Look up hidden digital content here.
33. Picsearch: Search for web images for your blog or marketing campaigns here.
34. Download.com: Find and download the web tools that can enhance your writing process here.
35. Podscope: This audio/video search engine features a fun design.
36. SeeqPod: Find music files here.
37. MsDewey: MsDewey waits for you to ask her to find web content while she flirts, plays the air guitar and gets bored.
38. Live Radio: Listen to the radio while you work.
39. YouTube: Find silly videos and authoritative news stories here.

People and Job Searches

These search engines will help boost your marketability, expose your own writings and even search for jobs.

41. InfoSpace: InfoSpace is a white pages search, yellow pages search, web search, tool for finding maps and getting directions, and more.
42. The National Diversity Newspaper Job Bank: This search engine is great for writers from diverse backgrounds.
43. JournalismJobs.com: Search for jobs by location or medium here.
44. Craigslist: Search for jobs, social events and more on Craigslist.
45. Wink: Wink is a free people search that lets you run background checks, find phone numbers and more.
46. PeekYou: Create a PeekYou profile to give your portfolio, projects and websites more exposure. You can also use the account to search for other people.
47. IAF.NET: Run background checks and do reverse phone number searches here.
48. Digg: Start your own network on Digg to expose your writing and find potential partners or employers.
49. Pandia People: Pandia People is a great resource full of tools and links for conducting people and e-mail address searches.
50. SearchBug: This people and company finder can connect you to new gigs and vendors.

Publication Searches

Get full-text access to books and scholarly journals here.

51. Google Scholar: When you only want authoritative information from scholarly journals, turn to this source.
52. Google Books: Find information and full-text for fiction, non-fiction and other works.
53. Essay Finder: You can search over 50,000 essays on a number of topics here.
54. JournalSeek: Access thousands of journal articles here, including categories like Social Sciences, Sports and Recreation, Earth Sciences, Law, and more.
55. JSTOR: This popular library tool is available online if you have an account.
56. Questia: Conduct your research on Questia, a site that lets you search library journals and books in categories like education, history, economics and business, art and architecture, and more.
57. Yahoo! Journals: Search journals about geology, health, humanities, law, medicine, music, science and more.

Foreign Language, Regional and Multicultural

If you need to report on foreign affairs, if you’re writing for a global audience, or if you want to extend your research beyond traditional American sources, these search engines are for you.

58. Search Engine Colossus: Click on a country from Nigeria to Denmark to access search tools for that region.
59. Foreignword: This search tool includes a translator.
60. elanex: This translation search engine could be useful for writers who translate texts or who are searching for primary sources.
61. Web Wombat: This is a large search engine with a mostly Australian and New Zealand focus.
62. uk+web+search: This meta search engine searches many UK and European engines at once.
63. Cultural Heritage Search Engine: If your work requires you to know a lot about an ancient or preserved culture, use this tool to connect to museums and other sources.

Desktop

Easily search your own computer for contracts, lost chapters and brainstorming documents with these tools.

64. Easyfind: Mac users will like EasyFind’s ability to find invisible files and files inside packages.
65. dtSearch: This Windows tool can find embedded links and converts file types.
66. Google Desktop: If you’re already a Google addict, this tool can help you stay organized offline.
67. Ask Desktop Search: This tool finds your e-mails, photos, files and music.
68. Recoll: Linux users can take advantage of this free search tool.
69. Yahoo! Desktop Search: This search even finds your instant messages from the archives.

Inspiration and Fun

These nontraditional search engines are more interactive, providing inspiration and fun during your research.

71. Mooter: Your results are categorized using a mind map to give your experience a little more variety.
72. ChaCha: If researching online drains your creativity and inspiration, use the personality-driven ChaCha for help.
73. Searchbots: This fun search engine lets you personalize your search experience.
74. Trooker: Browse and search for videos on Trooker to get your creative juices flowing.
75. Yahoo! Kids: Even if your prime audience isn’t just for kids, you can catch up on the latest in pop culture here.
76. Rollyo: "Roll your own search engine" with Rollyo, a tool that lets you specify categories and websites.
77. AskMeNow: Here you’ll find a slightly more personable system for searching.
78. Ask Me Help Desk: You can either pose your questions to the experts on this site or become an expert yourself as a personal marketing strategy.

Libraries

You don’t have to head to the library to do your research. These search engines are either compiled by, recommended by or sponsored by librarians.

79. Library of Congress: This massive library resource has lots of search tools and materials for online use.
80. Librarians’ Internet Index: Access quality websites when you use this search.
81. Digital Librarian: Click on a category or type in your search. Touted as "a librarian’s choice of the best of the Web."
82. PINAKES: This site connects to a lot of different library materials and authoritative sites.
83. The WWW Virtual Library: Click on a category like Education, Society, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, or The Arts to start your search.
84. hakia: Librarians recommend the sites archived here.
85. WorldCat: If you’d rather visit the actual library, use this tool first to make sure what you want is already there.

Blog Searches

When you want to reference blogs or find out what people are talking about, use these search engines.

86. Google Blogs: Refine your Google search so that your results only include blog posts.
87. Icerocket: Icerocket offers a blogs-only search.
88. Technorati: Technorati has one of the best blog directories out there.
89. AOL Search Blog: AOL will help you find the posts you want.
90. Sphere: Sphere aims to connect bloggers and readers, as well as those looking for content from articles, videos and photos.

Specialty Searches

From Shakespeare to mythology to trend watches, these specialty searches can help you with your special projects.

91. Google Trends: This is a great tool for writers who want to know what everyone is blogging and talking about.
92. factbites: Access only factual information here.
93. Google Product Search: If you’re supposed to review a certain product, look it up here.
94. Shakespeare Search: Search Shakespeare’s comedies, tragedies, most popular lines and more.
95. Godchecker: Learn more about mythology with this search engine.
96. Complete Planet: Access over 70,000 databases and specialty search engines here.
97. Bartleby: Great for checking quotations or getting inspiration.
98. All Academic: Here you can access academic journals and publications.
99. The CIA World Factbook: This is a great tool for journalists and anyone wanting to check factual information about another country or culture.
100. Showbizdata: Entertainment reporters and those writing about the entertainment industry can start their research here.

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