•Google has long excelled at tracking down Web links on obscure topics, from Asian floral designs to Zambian hairstyles. But now its improved search box also provides quick, direct answers to many common queries. Here are some tips and tricks:
Why hasn't my package arrived? To find out, type in a tracking number for any major shipping service.
Is my father's flight on time? Enter the name of an airline followed by a flight number to check on a plane's status.
Is it going to snow? Type in "weather" and any city and state for a quick (illustrated) report.
How good...