How to use CNFans Spreadsheet without wasting the first ten minutes.

Use search when you have a link, name, or shop

Search is the shortest route when you already have a product link, a shop name, or a specific item name. Paste the strongest clue first, then use category pages only if the result set is still too wide.

• Use a Taobao, Weidian, or 1688 link when you already have one.
• Use product names when you only know the general item.
• Use shop names when you are checking whether a seller has more relevant products.

Use categories when you are still deciding

Categories work better for discovery. They keep similar products close together, which makes shape, price, photos, and style differences easier to compare.

• Shoes and sneakers help when footwear is the anchor.
• Hoodies, sweaters, and jackets help when the top layer sets the outfit.
• Bags and accessories help when the goal is practical or detail-led.

Stay on one page long enough to notice patterns

A common mistake is switching pages before the first category teaches you anything. Spend a few minutes comparing similar items before deciding that the page is not useful.

• Compare product photos before opening too many new tabs.
• Check whether prices cluster around a normal range.
• Notice repeated styles so you can filter faster later.

Move only when the next category answers a real question

Switch pages for a reason: shoes to sneakers for more focus, jackets to sweaters for softer layering, or bags to accessories for smaller finishing details.

• Move narrower when the page feels too broad.
• Move broader when every result looks too similar.
• Move sideways when the outfit needs a supporting piece.

Practical workflow

1. Write down the item type you actually want before opening extra pages.
2. Search if you have a direct clue; otherwise open the closest category.
3. Compare five to ten similar products before judging the page.
4. Save only the items that are still interesting after a second look.
5. Open a support category only after the first choice has a clear direction.

Before you click out

• Is this category close to the item you want?
• Can you compare similar products on one screen?
• Do you know whether you are browsing for an anchor item or a detail item?
• Have you checked price, photos, and product notes before saving?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Starting with accessories before the main purchase is clear.
• Opening broad pages when a direct search would be faster.
• Saving too many similar items without removing weaker options.