Search Patterns

Search Input

• Prominent placement (top of page or easily accessible)
• Placeholder text: "Search [what they're searching]" not just "Search"
• Magnifying glass icon (universal, don't reinvent)
• Clear button (X) appears after typing
• Search on submit (Enter key), not on every keystroke (unless autocomplete)

Autocomplete

• Show after 2-3 characters minimum
• Highlight matching text in suggestions
• Limit to 5-8 suggestions
• Include category/type labels for mixed results
• Keyboard navigation (up/down arrows, Enter to select)
• Show recent searches when input is focused but empty