How to Find a Specific Folder in a SharePoint Document Library
Question details
The user needs to locate a specific folder using SharePoint search, but only the documents contained within the folder appear in the results.
- Product
- SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Searching for a specific folder by name within a SharePoint document library.
- Observed behavior
- SharePoint search displays the documents inside the folder but hides the folder itself unless a specific file type filter is applied.
Ensure you know the exact name or a keyword of the folder you are trying to find and verify that you have the correct access permissions for the SharePoint document library.
Apply the 'Other' File Type Filter in SharePoint Search
Adjust your SharePoint search filters to explicitly include folders, ensuring they appear alongside standard document results.
By default, SharePoint search prioritizes displaying individual documents over the folders that contain them. To view the actual folders in your search results, you must change the default file type filter.
Enter the specific name of the folder into the SharePoint search bar and press Enter.
On the search results page, locate and click on the 'File type' filter dropdown menu.
Choose the 'Other' option from the dropdown list. This expands the search results to include folders and other non-standard file types.
If you still cannot find the folder, click on 'Organization' in the search scope options to search across the entire organization rather than just the current library.
A Simpler Way to Manage and Edit Your Documents
If you often struggle with complex search filters and document management in SharePoint, consider managing your downloaded files with WPS Office. It provides an intuitive, built-in workspace for folder management and is a fully compatible alternative to Microsoft Office.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your computer or mobile device.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Easily open, organize, and edit your downloaded SharePoint documents directly within the WPS Office workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't SharePoint show folders in search results by default?
SharePoint search is designed to prioritize individual documents and files. Folders are categorized as a different content type, requiring you to manually adjust the file type filter to 'Other' to display them.
Can I search for a folder across all SharePoint sites?
Yes. After performing your initial search, look for the scope filters on the results page and select 'Organization'. This will expand your search across all sites in your organization that you have access to.
What if I still cannot find the folder after applying the filter?
If the folder remains hidden, double-check the spelling of the folder name. Additionally, verify that you have the necessary viewing permissions, or check the Recycle Bin in case the folder was accidentally deleted.
