Editing Advanced Search (section)

= How to use the Advanced Search =

== Introduction ==
The '''Advanced Search''' feature in ActiveCampaign is a powerful tool that enables users to find very specific groups of contacts based on a multitude of criteria. This feature is especially important as it allows marketers to segment their audience accurately, enhancing the efficacy of their campaigns. By creating tailored conditions, users can identify contacts based on various data points, including geolocation, actions they have taken, list memberships, deal statuses, and more. Ultimately, the ability to combine conditions using “And” and “Or” logic empowers users to narrow down their search results to precisely the contacts they're searching for, improving engagement and targeting.

== How to access this feature ==
To access the '''Advanced Search''' feature, follow these steps:
1. Navigate to the '''Contacts''' overview page in your ActiveCampaign account.
2. Locate the '''Search Contacts''' field at the top.
3. Click on this field and select the '''Advanced Search''' option from the dropdown menu.

== Step-by-step instructions ==
Follow these detailed steps to create an advanced search:

=== Step 1: Initiate Advanced Search ===
From the Contacts overview page, click on the '''Search Contacts''' field, then choose the '''Advanced Search''' option.

=== Step 2: Open the Segment Builder ===
The segment builder will appear at the top of the page, allowing you to define your search conditions.

=== Step 3: Select a Condition ===
Click on the left-most field that states '''(Select a condition).''' A dropdown of condition categories will display. Click any category to reveal its conditions. Select the desired condition by clicking it (e.g., select the '''Tag''' condition under the '''Contact Details''' category).

=== Step 4: Choose an Operator ===
Select an appropriate operator for your conditions by clicking the middle field. For instance, if you're looking for contacts with the "Engaged" tag, choose the '''Exists''' operator.

=== Step 5: Define Your Value ===
Input a specific value for your condition in the field on the right (e.g., choose or type "Engaged"). 

=== Step 6: Add Additional Conditions ===
To refine your search further, you can add more conditions by clicking '''+ Add another condition.''' You may specify whether you want the new condition combined with “And” or “Or” logic for the search results. Utilizing '''And''' means both conditions must be met, while '''Or''' means any of the conditions can be met.

=== Step 7: Execute the Search ===
Once you’ve defined your condition(s), click the '''Search''' button. Your results will be displayed on the Contacts page, corresponding to the specified conditions.

=== Step 8: Reopen Search if Needed ===
If you need to adjust your search conditions, click the '''Search contacts''' field again to reopen the advanced search builder.

== Configuration options and settings ==
As you navigate through the Advanced Search, pay attention to the following configuration options:
* '''Search Contacts Field''': This is where you initiate your search.
* '''Advanced Search Option''': The tool you select from the dropdown to access the segment builder.
* '''Segment Builder''': The interface where you designate conditions and filters.
* '''Condition Categories''': These include various fields like '''Contact Details''', demographics, and behavioral metrics.
* '''Operators''': Choose operators such as '''Exists''' or '''Does not exist''' to refine your searches.
* '''Logical Operators''': Decide whether to use '''And''' or '''Or''' logic when combining conditions.

== Best practices and tips ==
When using Advanced Search, keep the following best practices in mind:
* Familiarize yourself with the conditions available in the segment builder for more effective searches.
* Save your searches and segments with descriptive names so that you can easily identify them later.
* Utilize the dynamic nature of saved searches and segments to keep your campaigns relevant to changing contact behaviors and attributes.
* Experiment with different combinations of conditions to uncover valuable insights about your contacts.
* Regularly review and update your segments to ensure they reflect the most relevant criteria.

== Common use cases with examples ==
Here are some typical scenarios where the Advanced Search feature can be leveraged effectively:
* **Campaign Engagement**: Identify contacts who opened two or more specific campaigns, allowing targeted follow-up actions.
* **Website Interaction**: Create a segment of contacts who have visited a specific product page on your website, ideal for retargeting efforts.
* **Tag Tracking**: Apply a tag to contacts who clicked links in emails to monitor engagement and tailor future communications.
* **Lifecycle Stage Tracking**: Filter contacts based on the status of deals (e.g., won, lost) to focus your messaging based on their sales journey.
  
== Troubleshooting ==
If you encounter issues with the Advanced Search function, consider the following troubleshooting strategies:
* Ensure you’ve selected valid conditions and that they are set up correctly in the segment builder.
* If your search is not displaying expected results, double-check that the criteria are defined correctly and that you are using the correct operators.
* Remember that the results will update dynamically, so ensure that contacts you expect to see match the defined conditions.

== FAQ ==
=== What types of data can I use in an Advanced Search? ===
You can use a variety of data points including geolocation, contact actions, membership in lists, deal statuses, and more.

=== Can I combine multiple conditions in my searches? ===
Yes! You can combine multiple conditions using “And” or “Or” logic to refine your results.

=== Are saved searches dynamic? ===
Yes, saved searches update automatically as contacts meet or no longer meet the specified conditions.

=== How do I save an advanced search? ===
After creating your search conditions, click the '''Save as Search''' button and provide a descriptive name for easy identification later.

=== Can I create segments from my advanced searches? ===
Absolutely! After defining your desired conditions, you can save the search as a segment for targeted messaging.

=== Is there a limit to the conditions I can add? ===
There is no strict limit on the number of conditions you can add, but keep in mind that combining too many conditions may complicate your search.

=== How can I learn more about creating segments? ===
You can refer to the segments help documentation available [here](https://help.activecampaign.com/hc/en-us/articles/221483407).

By efficiently utilizing the Advanced Search feature, you can significantly enhance your targeting strategies, leading to improved engagement through personalized messaging and marketing efforts.
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