The first thing to do identify what you are looking for.  You could be looking for a specific item, or you could just be intending to browse and maybe purchase.  I have found that it is useful to do general searches,  and watch items that catch my eye.  The descriptions of items can be very informative, not just about the item itself but often suggest other key words you could use,  and the top of the page will usually show related searches that can be helpful. For example, if you search for wool,  it will bring up everything with wool in the description, whether you are looking for knitting wool, or woollen items.  Always check out sellers' other items as if they are selling one thing you like chances are they share your taste.  If they are a regular seller you can make them a favourite seller and post them to email you when they have particular items.  If you watch items, not only does it give you an idea of what people are paying for them, but when they end ebay automatically shows you similar items that are up for bidding.  alternative searches .