Google For Dummies

Seeing (and Erasing) Previous Searches

If you use Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser (most people do), you might notice that Google seems to anticipate certain keyword entries. As you type a word, a list drops down below the keyword box, suggesting a completed word or words. This can be helpful. It can also be a flaming annoyance that you'd give anything to be rid of.

Actually, Google is not doing a thing - the autocompletion feature is part of Internet Explorer, version 5 and later. If you're determined to shut it off, you must do so in the browser. Here's how:

1. In Explorer, choose Tools ® Internet Options.

2. Click the Content tab.

3. Under Personal Information, click the AutoComplete button.

4. In the AutoComplete Settings window, click the Clear Forms button.

5. If you want to disable Explorer from completing future forms, uncheck the Forms box and then click OK.

6. In the Internet Options window, click its OK button.

   Warning

   Unchecking the Forms box prevents Explorer from tracking your form fill-ins at all sites, not just at Google. This means eliminating the convenience of Explorer autocompleting your name, e-mail address, postal address, and other personal information at shopping sites and when registering at some Web sites. I get annoyed when it tries to complete my keywords, but I live with it on Google because I want that feature elsewhere.

Autocompletion is not always annoying in Google, either. Sometimes I repeat past searches. In particular, I like seeing previous searches that begin with a search operator, such as phonebook. In that case, Explorer's autocompletion delivers a long list of previously searched phone numbers - kind of like an instantly available online address book.