Outlook - Search Folders

Background Information

Search Folders are “virtual” folders that contain copies of all e-mail items matching search criteria that you set. All Search Folders that you use are stored in the Search Folders area of your Mailbox. Users can customize or create their own Search Folders by following the steps of this Job Aide.

How to Create a Search Folder

  1. Within Outlook, the Search Folder option is located in the left-hand column underneath your Inbox options. Right-click Search Folder and select New Search Folder.
  2. Select the desired Search Folder criteria pre-built into Outlook. Options include:
    • Reading Mail
    • Mail from People and Lists
    • Organizing Mail
    • Custom
  3. If applicable, select Choose under Customize Search Folder. Complete any additional criteria for your Search Folder.
  4. Select OK in all open windows.
  5. The search folder will now appear under Search Folders in the left-hand column of Outlook.

NOTE: Search Folders can be deleted by right-clicking the folder and selecting Delete Folder from the menu. Deleting a Search Folder will not delete the contents/emails inside of the folder. It only deletes the selected Search Folder.

How to Create a Custom Search Folder

  1. Locate Search Folders underneath your Inbox options. Right-click Search Folder and select New Search Folder.
  2. Scroll down to the Custom section. Select Create a custom Search Folder.
  3. Select Choose under the Customize Search Folder section.
  4. Name your custom Search Folder.
  5. Select Criteria to bring up the Search Folder Criteria window.
    • Select and choose any applicable criteria for your custom Search Folder.
    • Utilize all three tabs, if applicable.
  6. Select OK in all open windows.
  7. The Search Folder will now appear under Search Folders in the left-hand column of Outlook.

How to Change a Search Folder

  1. Right-click the Search Folder to edit and select Customize This Search Folder.
  2. Select Criteria and adjust/edit the criteria as desired.
  3. Select OK in all open windows.

 

To review images or save/download/print a copy of this Job Aide, please select the pdf attachment.

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