How to Stop the Search Window from Covering PDF Results in Acrobat for Mac
Question details
The user needs a way to view search results without the search box floating over and obscuring the highlighted text in the document.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Pro DC
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Searching for specific text or keywords within a PDF document.
- Observed behavior
- The standard search window opens directly over the PDF document, hiding the selected search results from view.
Ensure your Acrobat Pro DC software is up to date, as interface layouts can slightly differ across versions. Also, verify that your Mac's display resolution provides enough screen space to comfortably place multiple windows side-by-side.
Use the Advanced Search Command
Since Acrobat does not automatically reposition the standard search box to reveal text, using the Advanced Search tool provides a dedicated window that you can move anywhere on your screen.
The standard 'Find' tool in Acrobat operates as a floating dialog box that stays on top of your active document. By switching to the Advanced Search function, you generate a completely separate window. This allows you to position the search controls entirely outside of the document viewing area, ensuring your results are never blocked.
With your PDF open in Acrobat Pro DC for Mac, navigate to the top menu bar, click on 'Edit', and select 'Advanced Search' from the dropdown menu. Alternatively, press 'Shift + Command + F' on your keyboard.
Click and hold the top title bar of the newly opened Advanced Search window, and drag it to the side of your screen or to a secondary monitor.
Enter your desired keyword or phrase into the text field and click 'Search'. You can now click through the results listed in the separate window while viewing the unobstructed, highlighted text in your main document.
Search PDFs Seamlessly Without Blocking Text Using WPS Office
If floating search boxes interrupt your workflow, WPS PDF features a smart, built-in search sidebar. It automatically displays your results neatly alongside the document, ensuring your view of the highlighted text is never blocked.
- 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your target PDF document.
- 2. Activate the search pane: Click the magnifying glass 'Search' icon on the left navigation bar, or press 'Cmd + F' on your Mac keyboard to open the dedicated search side-pane.
- 3. View unobstructed results: Type your keyword into the sidebar's search field. The interface will list all instances on the side, instantly navigating to the highlighted text in the main view without covering it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I permanently dock the standard search box in Adobe Acrobat?
No, the standard 'Find' tool (Cmd + F) in Acrobat for Mac is designed as a floating window and cannot be permanently docked to the side of the interface. You must use the Advanced Search feature to get a movable window.
What is the keyboard shortcut for Advanced Search in Acrobat for Mac?
You can quickly open the Advanced Search window in Acrobat Pro DC for Mac by pressing 'Shift + Command + F' on your keyboard.
Does Advanced Search allow me to search across multiple PDFs?
Yes, Advanced Search not only allows you to find text within the current document but also includes an option to search 'All PDF Documents in' a specific local folder or connected drive.
