Google has a simple tool called Google Alerts that allows you to track various queries in its search engine. You simply enter the term you want to search, specify what kind of search you want to do, and how often you want a report.

I currently use Google Alerts to track two queries:

1. pitlyuk
2. activetuning

This way if those terms are used on any sites that Google indexes, I will know about it. I know how quickly Google indexes this blog, because I see how long it takes for them to send me a report on “pitlyuk” after I make a post.

The tool is also useful if you are looking to track some sort of news event or topic that you want to see the latest and greatest information on.

Do you use Google Alerts for something in particular? Let me know, I’d be interested in seeing some of the other uses of the tool.