Find and replace shortcuts
Start with these four commands when looking through a file or a folder. The shortcuts below are defaults; a customized installation can use different assignments.
| Shortcut | Action | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Ctrl + F | Find | Locating text in the current document |
| Ctrl + H | Replace | Changing matching text in a document |
| Ctrl + Shift + F | Find in Files | Searching files in a directory |
| Ctrl + M | Mark | Marking matches for easier inspection |
A careful search-and-replace workflow
Make the scope clear
For one document, begin with Find. For a folder, use Find in Files and check the directory and file filters before searching.
Start with a literal match
Choose Normal search mode for ordinary text. Match case and whole-word settings can change which results you get.
Inspect before replacing
Use Find to verify the target. For a small document, replace one occurrence and inspect the change before replacing every match.
Use regular expressions deliberately
Regular expression mode changes how punctuation and escapes are interpreted. Test on a copy or a small selection before applying a pattern widely.
If a document contains server_name and you want host_name, inspect a Normal-mode search for the old label first. Confirm the scope before using Replace All, especially if other keys contain the same text.
Check or change a shortcut
Open Settings → Shortcut Mapper. Locate the command, review its current keys and change the assignment if needed. Check for conflicts before saving a new combination. Plugin commands can have separate assignments.
The exact keys printed next to a menu command are a useful first check when a shortcut does something different from a guide. Your keyboard layout and existing customizations can also matter.
Shortcut questions
Why do these keys open different tabs in one dialog?
Find, Replace, Find in Files and Mark are related search views. Their shortcuts open the relevant tab or switch to it when the search dialog is already open.
What if I want to search only one kind of file?
In Find in Files, set the file filter for the extensions you need, such as *.txt. Confirm the directory before starting so the search stays within the intended folder.
Can I customize plugin shortcuts too?
Yes. Shortcut Mapper includes a Plugin commands tab. Available commands depend on the plugins you have installed.
Sources: official searching reference and Shortcut Mapper documentation.