The Joy of Search Folders

We all know that folders on our computers are good for keeping stuff in. But some of the most useful folders don't contain anything at all. The new-fangled "Search Folders" were one of the brightest innovations in Outlook 2003. Search Folders are virtual folders which play host to the results of a search query you have created. For example, if you'd instantly like to see all of the emails from your boss you could create a search folder that 'contains' just these items. Then by adding your new search folder to your favorite folders list it will appear at the top of the Outlook folder list, right where you need it.

Outlook provides three default search folders for you. These show all your unread mail,  items that are flagged for follow-up and your large mail items (>100kb). You can easily create some of your own and you'll quickly be amazed at the power they provide. I regularly use search folders that show all items over 1MB in size that are older than 6 months old. This helps me clear out big old junk without deleting recently received items. There's some helpful information about search folders at https://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/assistance/HP073284741033.aspx. Have a play. Who knows what you might find.

[I've been playing with Outlook 2007 recently. The new application takes the functionality of search folders to a new level, for example by using this concept to present your 'To Do' list, a virtual list of all the items in Outlook that you've flagged for attention on certain dates. It's very cool so take a look at search folders today to familiarise yourself with the concept so you can make the most of it today and when Outlook 2007 is released]