> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://interfacing.gitbook.io/interfacing-help-files/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://interfacing.gitbook.io/interfacing-help-files/end-users/searching-for-content/searching-with-the-search-bar.md).
# Searching with the Search Bar
Quickly locate and filter content across the platform.
The **Search Bar**, located in the top navigation, helps you quickly find content across the platform. It searches multiple areas at once and displays results instantly, eliminating the need to navigate through individual modules.
***
## Using the Search Bar
Follow these steps to search for content and refine your results using the **Search Bar**:
{% stepper %}
{% step %}
### Opening the Search Bar
* Click the **Search Bar** in the top navigation.
* A panel opens with options for searching, filtering, and exploring results.
***
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Entering a Search Term
Enter a word or phrase in the **Search Field** at the top of the panel.
* Results appear automatically after you enter **two or more characters**.
* You don't need to press **Enter**—results update as you type.
* To return to the default view, clear the **Search Field**.
***
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Reviewing Recommendations
Review the recommendations to quickly find relevant content:
* **Before typing**: Suggestions may appear based on your **recent activity**.
* **While typing**: Suggestions update in real time to match your search.
***
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Refining Your Results
#### :folder-open: Using Tabs
Select a tab (e.g., **Library**, **To Do**, or **Apps**) to view results from that module.
{% hint style="info" %}
#### Understanding Apps Results
In the **Apps** tab:
* Look under **Starter Forms** to find standalone forms (e.g., CAPA List) or forms used to start a new workflow (e.g., New CAPA).
* Look under **Instances** to find submitted records (e.g., Review CAPA).
{% endhint %}
#### :filter: Applying Filters
Use the filters in the selected tab to narrow results.
→ See: [Using Quick Filters](/interfacing-help-files/end-users/list-view-management/searching-and-filtering-in-list-view.md#using-quick-filters)
{% hint style="info" %}
#### Filtering Results by Scope
By default, searches in the **Library** tab include all content you have access to, regardless of its location in the hierarchy.
To limit your search to a specific level and its sub-levels:
* Navigate to the desired level in the **Library**.
* Open the **Search Bar** and ensure the **Library** tab is selected.
* Open the **All Content** filter and select **Current Level and Sub-Levels**.
The **All Content** filter is available only when you start your search from a specific level in the **Library**. It is unavailable for searches started outside the **Library** or without a specific level selected.
{% endhint %}
***
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Navigating to a Result
Click any item in the search results to open it directly in the platform.
***
{% endstep %}
{% step %}
### Closing the Search
To close the panel, click anywhere outside it.
***
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
***
## See Also
Cover image
How to Search Using AI Assistant
Leverage the AI Assistant to streamline your workflow and boost productivity with intelligent support.
---
# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.
## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.
Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:
```
GET https://interfacing.gitbook.io/interfacing-help-files/end-users/searching-for-content/searching-with-the-search-bar.md?ask=&goal=
```
`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.
Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
