Overview
Search for messages across all conversations and spaces in Google Chat.
URLs
| Page | URL | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chat | https://chat.google.com/ | Main chat page |
Critical Constraints
- Google Account Required: Must be signed in to access Chat
- Search Scope: By default searches all conversations you have access to
Workflow: Search Messages
1. Access Search
- Navigate to
https://chat.google.com/ - Click the search input at the top (labeled "Search in Chat")
2. Enter Search Query
- Type your search terms in the input field
- Press Enter to submit the search
3. Filter Results (Optional)
After searching, filter buttons appear:
| Filter | Purpose |
|---|---|
| From | Filter by sender |
| In specific conversation | Limit to one chat/space |
| Date | Filter by time range |
| Has file | Messages with attachments |
| Has link | Messages with URLs |
| Mentions me | Messages where you were mentioned |
| Joined conversations only | Only conversations you participate in |
4. Sort Results
Click "Sort by relevance" to toggle between:
- Relevance (default)
- Date
5. View Full Message
- Click "Show more" on any result to expand full content
- Click the result itself to navigate to the original conversation thread
Workflow: Search Within Specific Space
1. Open Target Space
Navigate to the space you want to search.
2. Access Space Search
Click the "Search in this chat" button in the header.
3. Enter Query
- Type your search terms
- Results are limited to that space only
Search Tips
| Tip | Example |
|---|---|
| Exact phrase | "exact phrase" |
| Multiple terms | report budget Q4 |
| Sender + keyword | Use From filter + search term |
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No results | Typo or wrong terms | Try alternative keywords |
| Too many results | Query too broad | Add filters or more specific terms |
| Can't find old message | Date range limited | Adjust Date filter |
Notes
- Search results show surrounding context
- Clicking a result jumps directly to that message in the thread
- Filter combinations narrow results effectively