SEARCH in WPS on Windows FAQ

Last updated:July 23, 2026

Common questions about SEARCH usually focus on argument entry, unexpected results, and combined formulas; this FAQ covers 3 common question types.

FAQ

What should I check if the SEARCH function returns an error?

  1. Check whether the function name is entered correctly.
  2. Check whether the number and order of arguments match the formula format.
  3. Check whether the referenced field data type fits a text-search scenario.
  4. Save the formula and review the error message again if needed.

Can SEARCH be used together with other functions?

  1. Yes. You can combine SEARCH with IF and other functions in the same formula.
  2. First confirm that the SEARCH result is correct.
  3. Then use that result as a condition or input for another function.

Why does the result change after I edit the data?

  1. Formula fields recalculate automatically based on the current record content.
  2. When the target text or the searched text changes, the SEARCH result changes too.
  3. If the result looks wrong, check whether the field reference is still correct.

Glossary

TermDefinition
SEARCHA function that returns the first position of specified text inside another text string.
Formula fieldA field type in a multi-dimensional table that calculates results automatically with formulas.
ArgumentAn input value in a function that affects how the calculation runs and what result is returned.