Windows Search lets the ActionPad search your computer for files, folders, applications, and Start Menu items. When enabled, typing in the ActionPad finds not only your Words but also items across your system.
Enabling Windows Search
Open Options and go to the ActionPad tab. Turn on Windows Search to include files, folders, applications, and Start Menu items in ActionPad search results. When Windows Search is off, the ActionPad searches only ActiveWords (and other enabled options such as Date Calculations and Advanced Calculator).
What Windows Search Finds
- Folders – Files and folders on your computer
- Applications – Installed programs, including both traditional desktop applications and packaged apps from the Microsoft Store
- Start Menu items – Programs and shortcuts in the Windows Start Menu
Packaged Apps vs. Traditional Applications
A packaged application is an app you download and install from the Microsoft Store (or one that came preinstalled with Windows from the Store). A traditional application is typically installed from the web or from an installer. Both types appear in ActionPad search results when Windows Search is enabled. For example, Notepad on Windows 11 is a packaged app; many other programs you install manually are traditional applications.
How Search Matches
You can control how search matches your typing:
- Starts with – Results must begin with the text you type (e.g., typing "calc" finds Calculator but not "Windows Calculator")
- Contains – Results can match anywhere in the name (e.g., typing "calc" finds Calculator, Calculator App, etc.)
Where to Search
You can limit where Windows Search looks:
- System – Search your entire computer
- Profile – Limit the search to files and folders under your user profile
Choosing Profile can speed up search if you only need results from your personal files and folders.
Related FAQs
- ActionPad – Overview and configuration
- Date Calculations – Date arithmetic in the ActionPad
- Advanced Calculator – Math in the ActionPad
