# Search Code and Text - Find Strings in Project

> How to use the Search function (Ctrl+F) in VB Decompiler. Searching for text within the active window or across the entire decompiled project.

Canonical HTML: <https://www.vb-decompiler.org/help/string_search.htm>

## String Search


After decompiling the program, just double-click any object within the tree structure of the **Solution Explorer** - the code, form, or data corresponding to the selected element in the tree will be displayed nearby. If the displayed object is a form or code, it can be quite challenging to find the specific text manually if analyzing everything by hand. To simplify analysis, the **Search string** form is available. It can be accessed through the **Tools** menu or using the keyboard shortcut **Ctrl + F**.

![VB Decompiler String Search](https://www.vb-decompiler.org/image/help/search_string.png)


There are two search modes: basic and whole program. The basic mode searches only in the code or form data currently open on your screen, not throughout the entire program. If you need to find a string within the entire program, make sure the **In active window** checkbox is unchecked. This whole-program search option is available only if **Fast decompilation** is disabled in [Options](https://www.vb-decompiler.org/help/program_options.htm) - that is, when all code has already been decompiled and can be searched through.


To begin searching, enter your desired string into the **String** field and click the **Find** button. To continue searching for the same string, click the **Find** next button. The **Cancel** button closes the search window.