How to Perform a Find in Filemaker Pro
The database's purpose is to organize similar data and retrieve the data for a specific use. FileMaker Pro uses the Find mode to retrieve data. The Find mode process is called query by example; information is entered into a field of a blank screen layout. After completing the Find, the data becomes a found set of information to be used as needed, such as sorted, exported or printed.
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Instructions
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Go to the correct layout. The correct layout will contain the field or fields to search on. For example, to find all people with last name "Smith," make sure the layout has a last name field.
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Change to Find mode. FileMaker has 3 ways to select modes, from the menu bar under "View," from the pop-up menu on the lower left of the screen or by keyboard command (Control F for the PC or Command F on the Mac). FileMaker Pro will then display a blank layout on the screen.
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Place the cursor active in field that contains the criteria on which the search will be performed. For example, to locate someone named Smith, enter the last name field and type "Smith."
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Use multiple find requests for more advanced searches. Enter the criteria for the first find. Go to "Requests" and select "Add New Request." A new, blank layout screen will appear. Enter the additional request criteria in the appropriate field of the second find layout. For example, to find records for the last names "Smith" and "Jones," enter Smith in the last name field of the first find request and Jones in the last name field of the second find request. The result will yield records in which Smith or Jones appears in the last name field.
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Enter special symbols in find fields when needed. A list of these symbols appears on the Find mode status area. Popular symbols include a symbol to search a range, such as a range of date or values; a symbol for "less than" and "more than;" and a symbol for exact match, which helps to find empty fields.
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Put a check in the Omit box when needed. The Omit box will omit from the found set all records that have the criteria in that field. For example, to find records for all states except Mississippi, enter Mississippi in the state field and click the Omit box
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Click "Find." FileMaker brings up the records that match the request. This is the found set. The number of records found will be listed on the left status area.
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Tips & Warnings
Search criteria cannot be entered in some types of FileMaker Pro fields. Summary fields, global fields, container fields and web viewers cannot be used for finding records.
"Modify Last Find" is a helpful in complex finds. This command displays the previous find request. It then can be changed to correct an error in the find request or to yield a different found set. The "Modify Last Find" command is in the Records menu on the menu bar.
