MySQL full-text search explained with WordPress database examples
Replace slow LIKE queries with MySQL full-text MATCH AGAINST searches to power fast, relevance-ranked search in WordPress plugins and custom queries.
Limit WordPress search to specific post types
By default WordPress includes all public post types in search results — posts, pages, and any registered custom post types. On a standard blog that is usually acceptable, but on a more complex site it quickly becomes a problem. Imagine a site that has regular posts, documentation pages, a portfolio section, team member profiles, and…
Search WordPress by Custom Fields Without a Plugin
By default, the WordPress search queries only the post_title and post_content columns in the wp_posts table. If you store important data in custom fields (post meta), those values are invisible to the search engine unless you extend it. Fortunately, three WordPress filters give you exactly the hooks you need — no plugin required.
AJAX live search in WordPress
AJAX live search in WordPress Adding AJAX to a search form makes the experience far more dynamic and user-friendly. This article walks through how to build one from scratch.