In this article, we’ll explain how to use the SCOUT search mask, including how to enter queries in both Smart Search and Expert Search. 

When you access SCOUT Search, you’ll see two tabs at the top of the interface: Smart and Expert. Click on the tab you want to use, depending on your preferred search style.

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Smart search 

Smart Search is straightforward and easy to use. It supports semantic queries, meaning you can type your search in natural language (e.g., “AI in automotive manufacturing”).

Just type your phrase and press Enter or click on Search.

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Expert Search 

Expert Search gives you more control with lexical search and the use of Boolean operators (AND, OR). It is based on exact term matching and structured queries.

You will see two separate search bars: Topic, for technical terms, technologies,..., and Organization, for specific companies, institutions, or other entities.
You can use either one or both: If you use both, the system will AND connect them automatically, meaning the results will match both the topic and the organization.

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• Add your first term. Type your keyword into the relevant search bar (Topic or Organization). Press Enter or click the magnifying glass to add it.
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• OR connect terms: Type another term in the same field and repeat the step above.Each term added this way will be OR connected.

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• AND connect terms: If you want to combine different concepts in your search, you can use the AND connector to create more targeted queries. Click the AND connector below your current terms. This action will create a new section of terms. Any terms added to this new section will be OR connected to each other.You can repeat this process and add multiple AND-connected sections if needed, depending on how complex your search should be.
  

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• Remove terms or connectors. You can remove terms or entire sections at any time: Click the X next to any term to remove it.If you've used an AND connection, you can click the X next to the AND connector to remove that entire group.

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Autosuggestions & Recommendations

When typing a new term, a dropdown will appear showing autosuggestions. If you wish to add any of these items, just use the checkbox to select them, and then click on “Click here to add selected items”.

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After entering a term, you will see a list of recommended items related to it under the “You might also be interested in” section, simply click on a term to add it to your query.

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If you want to learn to build great queries, we recommend you the following articles:

• Expert Search: Boolean operators 
• Expert Search: Formulate good Expert queries
• Smart search: Best practices

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