How To Search For A Folder In Outlook: A Step-by-Step Guide

Searching for a folder in Outlook can be a breeze if you know where to look. Whether you’re trying to declutter your inbox or find an important email you’ve filed away, finding the right folder is key. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to easily search for a folder in Outlook, so you can get organized and stay on top of your emails.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Search for a Folder in Outlook

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that searching for a folder in Outlook is a simple process that can save you time and frustration. By following these steps, you’ll be able to quickly locate any folder within your Outlook account.

Step 1: Open Outlook

Open your Outlook application on your computer.

When you open Outlook, you’ll be greeted with your inbox and a list of folders on the left-hand side. If you have multiple email accounts set up, make sure you’re in the correct one where the folder you’re searching for is located.

Step 2: Click on the Search Bar

Click on the search bar located at the top of Outlook.

The search bar is your gateway to finding anything within Outlook. It’s typically labeled with "Search Mail and People" or simply "Search" depending on the version of Outlook you’re using.

Step 3: Type ‘folder:’ followed by the Folder Name

Type ‘folder:’ followed by the name of the folder you’re searching for.

By typing ‘folder:’ you’re telling Outlook to narrow down the search to folders only. Make sure you type the name of the folder correctly to avoid any issues with the search results.

Step 4: Select the Folder from the Search Results

Select the folder you were searching for from the search results.

Once you’ve entered the correct name, Outlook will display a list of folders that match your search query. Simply click on the folder you were looking for, and you’ll be taken directly to it.

After completing these steps, you’ll be able to access the folder you were searching for and find the emails or files you need. It’s a straightforward process that can be repeated whenever you need to find a specific folder.

Tips for Searching for a Folder in Outlook

  • Make sure you’re in the right email account where the folder is located.
  • Use specific and unique folder names to make searching easier.
  • If you have many folders, consider organizing them into subfolders for better management.
  • Remember that the search function is case-insensitive, so don’t worry about capitalization.
  • Regularly clean up and sort your folders to ensure that searches remain quick and efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I can’t find the folder I’m looking for?

Double-check the spelling of the folder name and ensure you’re in the correct email account. If you still can’t find it, the folder may have been deleted or moved.

Can I search for subfolders as well?

Yes, you can search for subfolders using the same ‘folder:’ prefix in the search bar. Just type the name of the subfolder you’re looking for.

Is there a way to search for multiple folders at once?

Outlook’s search function currently doesn’t support searching for multiple folders simultaneously. You’ll need to search for each folder individually.

Can I use this search method in the Outlook mobile app?

The search functionality in the Outlook mobile app may differ, and the ‘folder:’ prefix might not work. It’s best to use the desktop application for this method.

Will this method work for shared folders?

Yes, as long as you have access to the shared folders, you can search for them using the steps outlined above.

Summary

  1. Open Outlook.
  2. Click on the search bar.
  3. Type ‘folder:’ followed by the Folder Name.
  4. Select the Folder from the Search Results.

Conclusion

Searching for a folder in Outlook doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and a little bit of know-how, you can quickly find any folder you need. Remember to use specific folder names and keep your inbox organized to make the search process even smoother. Whether you’re a busy professional or just trying to maintain a tidy email account, mastering the art of searching for folders in Outlook can help you stay efficient and productive. So go ahead, give it a try and see how much easier managing your emails can be!

About the author

Matt Williams has been in the IT field for almost two decades, and has held a number of roles. Now he spends most of his time building websites and writing content.