The Notes Mail Query feature (traditionally used within HCL Notes / Lotus Notes) allows you to use highly specific search syntax and Boolean operators to parse massive email databases efficiently.
To unlock full-text advanced searching, your mail application must first have a Full-Text Index built, indicated by a green “Indexed” light in your search menu. Essential Search Operators
Notes Web query syntax recognizes operators that must be entered in ALL CAPS to execute correctly (lowercase words will be treated as standard search terms):
AND: Finds documents containing both terms (e.g., Sales AND Report).
OR: Finds documents containing either term (e.g., Marketing OR PR).
NOT / –: Excludes specific terms from your search (e.g., Project NOT Phase3 or Project -Phase3).
ACCRUE: Prioritizes results matching the highest number of specified terms.
Wildcard (): Placed at the end of a word to find variations (e.g., comput finds computer, computing, etc.). Targeted Field Searching
You can restrict your query to specific structural elements of an email by defining the field directly in the search bar:
Subject Field: Type [Subject] CONTAINS “Budget” to strictly look inside subject lines.
Sender Field: Type [From] CONTAINS “Manager” to isolate specific senders.
Body Text: Type [Body] CONTAINS “Confidential” to skip metadata and search only message contents. Step-by-Step Advanced Search Execution
Open Search: Click Ctrl + F or select View > Search this View from your top application menu.
Verify Indexing: Ensure the top-right status indicator shows Indexed. If it says Not Indexed, select the dropdown to create a full-text index.
Use “More” Options: Click the More button in the search bar to reveal structured rule matrices.
Add Conditions: Filter dynamically by selecting specific criteria like Date Created, Size, or Sender without manually typing complex syntax. If you want to map out a precise sequence, tell me:
The specific fields you need to isolate (e.g., specific dates, attachment status, or sender names)
The email client version you are currently usingI will draft the exact query syntax you need to paste into your search bar. Lotus Notes: Searching email by fields – Super User
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