Windows 10’s Hidden Search Tips Will Help You Find Anything Much More Quickly
Windows 10’s Hidden Search Tips Will Help You Find Anything Much More Quickly
It is likely that you use the search bar on a daily basis to start applications or hunt for files, just like the majority of people who use Windows 10. On the other hand, were you aware that there are a number of secret methods and shortcuts that may assist you in finding anything on your personal computer more quickly?
The majority of people barely skim the surface of what Windows 10’s search mechanism is capable of doing, despite the fact that it is extremely strong. In the event that you are attempting to find a document that you have misplaced, swiftly access settings, or filter down results based on the sort of file, these less well-known strategies can assist you in achieving goals more quickly and with less irritation.
We are going to go into some clever and easy methods to make the most of the search capabilities of Windows 10.
Make use of the Search Bar as a shortcut for the Control Panel.
The majority of users will manually go to the Control Panel or Settings, but the search box presents you with the opportunity to get straight to the location you need. In order to find what you are searching for, just put it in:
- The term “Bluetooth”
- “Settings for the display”
- You may “uninstall a program”
The search box will immediately display any applications or shortcuts that are pertinent to the system, even those that are hidden deep inside menus. It is an excellent method for avoiding clicking through several windows and saving time at the same time.
In place of whole names, you should use keywords.
Search in Windows 10 is more intelligent than you would believe. You do not have to enter the whole name of the application or file. To give you an example, if you are searching for Google Chrome, just entering “chrome” will bring it up immediately to your attention.
Simply typing “July meeting” or “notes” into the search bar will bring up a Word document with the heading Meeting Notes for the month of July. Windows makes advantage of keyword matching, which allows it to locate incomplete sentences, file contents, and even words that sound similar to one another.
In order to narrow the results, add file extensions.
You should add the file extension in your search if you are looking for a particular kind of file, such as a PDF or an image. Just one example:
- invoice.pdf and
- pictures.jpg
- filename: budget.xlsx
This assists in filtering out files that are not linked to one another and takes you closer to what it is that you are truly looking for. To see all of the Word documents that are included inside a folder or on your whole computer, you can also just input something like *.docx.
Employing Search Filters Results in Improved Accuracy
Despite the fact that they are not always apparent, Windows 10 search is compatible with filters. You are able to directly input instructions into the search box, such as the following:
- file:today – Locates files that have been changed today
- The kind:picture filter only applies to pictures.
- displays files that are greater than one megabyte (MB)
When you recall the kind of file or the time of the file but not the name of the file, these sophisticated search filters perform quite well.
Be sure not to overlook the search box in File Explorer.
However, File Explorer has its own strong search box located in the top-right corner of the window. The majority of users concentrate on the search bar located in the Start Menu. Particularly helpful is the situation in which you are aware of the folder in which the file could be lurking.
When you are within a folder such as “Documents” or “Downloads,” utilizing the search function in File Explorer may be more efficient and accurate than using the search function that functions throughout the whole system.
Make Use of Your Search History to Save Time
Microsoft Windows 10 remembers the most recent searches you’ve made. Whenever you click inside the search box, you will often notice that a dropdown menu containing your previous search phrases appears. If you do a lot of searching for the same items, this will save you a significant amount of time.
It is also an excellent method for retracing your steps in the event that you discovered something before but have forgotten the specifics of how you discovered it.
Attempt to use Natural Language Queries.
When doing some searches, did you realize that you may use plain English? Basic natural language inquiries are supported by Windows 10, including the following:
- “Pictures from the previous week”
- “Documents submitted in January”
- “Sarah’s Sendings in Email”
In spite of the fact that it is not flawless, when it does function, it seems very natural and quick.
Take use of the “Search in Settings” function to locate hidden features.
Sometimes you are not searching for a file; rather, you are seeking for a setting, such as altering the resolution of the screen or turning off alerts. Navigate to the Settings app and then utilize the search box that is located at the very top of the window where you are.
In this way, you are able to circumvent all of the menus and get straight access to features that you may not have even been aware existed.
Remarks to Conclude
The search capabilities that come with Windows 10 are really helpful, but only if you are aware of how to use them to their full potential. You will be able to quit searching through folders and begin discovering items in a matter of seconds if you adopt a few simple adjustments and suggestions.
Be as descriptive as possible and think in a logical manner. Make use of categories of files, filters, and keywords. The search bar should be made to work harder so that you do not have to.
