MacBook users know that the spotlight search is perhaps the first go-to option when you can't locate something critical. A quicker, more seamless alternative, your spotlight search can locate almost anything on your system -- and without delay! However, if you're a new user, it is essential to get acquainted with all that it can do before jumping into its hacks:
What is Macbook's Spotlight Search?
Apple brought in the Spotlight Search more than a decade ago in 2005 as a revamped version for searching files. However, what originally intended to be a modest search tool has now been backed with various functions and can perform a few more complex tasks.
How to use the Spotlight Search?
The keyboard shortcut to use your Macbook's Spotlight Search is:
Command + Space
You can also click on the search magnifying glass icon on the top right corner of your menu bar to activate it.
What can Spotlight Search do?
Quickly open your apps -- for starters! All you have to do is type in your search query in the box to find related results within seconds. For instance, if you're looking for Google Chrome, type 'Chrome' in your search bar to locate the app. However, we're going to list five additional functions that you can use your Spotlight Search for:
1) Use it as a calculator: Did you know that you don't have to search for a calculator each time you want to do some quick maths? The Spotlight Search gives you an answer every time you type in a maths problem (For instance: 34x3) into the search bar. So, Command + Space your maths problem the next time; whether it is very simple or too complicated... your Macbook won't judge you!
2) Use it for conversions: Just like the calculator, you can also use it to make swift online conversions. For instance, if you're looking to know how much $250 is in rupees, you can simply type your query into the search bar to find the converted amount. Apart from this, you can also try other conversions such as metre to kilometres, or any other units of measurements.
3) Facetiming: If you're in a hurry and need to facetime someone, you no longer have to wait until your app loads. You can choose to type the name of the person on to the Spotlight Search bar, and your Macbook will automatically dial them for you. Well, for a search bar, it is pretty handy!
4) Search using emojis: You don't even have to go as far as typing your favourite food onto Google to search for restaurants near you. Typing an emoji (for instance: pizza) will jot down a list of restaurants in your vicinity that serve all the types of pizzas you've been craving.
5) Use natural language: Spotlight can perform a more humanised search if you type to it in a more 'natural' language. For instance, you may ask your search bar for queries such as 'pictures from last year' or 'word document from Kate' to be more precise about the time and date.
