Information Retrieval: Implementing and Evaluating Search Engines

An introduction to information retrieval, the foundation for modern search engines, that emphasizes implementation and experimentation.

Information retrieval is the foundation for modern search engines. This textbook offers an introduction to the core topics underlying modern search technologies, including algorithms, data structures, indexing, retrieval, and evaluation. The emphasis is on implementation and experimentation; each chapter includes exercises and suggestions for student projects. Wumpus—a multiuser open-source information retrieval system developed by one of the authors and available online—provides model implementations and a basis for student work. The modular structure of the book allows instructors to use it in a variety of graduate-level courses, including courses taught from a database systems perspective, traditional information retrieval courses with a focus on IR theory, and courses covering the basics of Web retrieval. In addition to its classroom use, Information Retrieval will be a valuable reference for professionals in computer science, computer engineering, and software engineering.

Stefan Büttcher is a Software Engineer at Google.

Charles L. A. Clarke is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo's David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science.

Gordon V. Cormack is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo's David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science.