How to search for text in Dropbox files

You can search for text while previewing the following file types on Dropbox:

• .doc
• .docx
• .docm
• .eps
• .key
• .kth
• .odp
• .odt
• .oft
• .pdf
• .ppt
• .ppsm
• .ppsx
• .pptm
• .pptx
• .ps
• .wpd
• .xd

To preview a file on dropbox.com, click the name of the file in your Dropbox account. 

• Make sure you have your previews set to Full screen to search for text in a file.

You can also preview files that are shared with you by clicking on the email or link that was sent to you.
 

How to search for text in a file

To search for text in a document file:

1. Open a file you’d like to find text in on dropbox.com.
2. Click the search icon (magnifying glass) in the toolbar at the bottom of the page.
   • Make sure you have your previews set to Full screen to search for text in a file.
   • Note: You can also use control-f (Windows) or command-f (Mac).
3. Type the keyword or phrase you’d like to find.

You’ll see the total number of matching results display in the search bar. Your current match will appear in green, and your other matches will appear in yellow. Use the arrow keys in the search bar or press enter to switch between matches.

Learn more about using Dropbox AI for search.