It is possible to exclude individual notes (and agents) by setting an item-scope Boolean $Searchable.
By setting a false value for $Searchable, that item is excluded from searches even if otherwise matching search criteria. This makes it easier to exclude behind-the-scenes notes like templates, prototypes, and general framework containers for normal searches whist allowing content to be intermingled. Previously, such items were excluded by storing them away from primary content in a different outline branch or map.
Features using $Searchable
The following honour the $Searchable setting:
- agent queries
- action code find()
- action codes using query-based arguments, e.g. if(), collect_if, etc.
- view filter bar
- views with (optional) query-based scope, e.g. Attribute Browser view.
Search features that ignore the $Searchable setting:
- View Find (Cmd+F) either as in-view Find bar or as stand-alone Find window.
In summary, all search methods except view pane Find use $Searchable.
Scope of objects affected
The following types of object use $Searchable settings:
The attribute affects notes, containers, agents and aliases (see below).
The following types of object do not use $Searchable settings (i.e. setting the attribute has no effect):
- Adornments are always excluded, regardless of the $Searchable setting.
Scope of setting
The attribute is intrinsic so may be set separately for aliases, for instance ensuring a particular alias is matched rather than its original.