[eclipse] Searching a string in eclipse workspace

How to search for a string in the complete eclipse workspace? I was not able to locate a text in the eclipse workspace however I could not find the specified string in the workspace.

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The answer is


A lot of answers only explain how to do the search.

To view the results look for a search tab (normally docked at the bottom of the screen):


Goto Search->File

You will get an window, you can give either simple search text or regx pattern. Once you enter your search keyword click Search and make sure that Scope is Workspace.

You may use this for Replace as well.


Ctrl+ H, Select "File Search", indicate the "file name pattern", for example *.xml or *.java. And then select the scope "Workspace"


In your Eclipse editor screen, try Control + Shift + R buttons.


Press Ctrl + H, should bring up the search that will include options to search via project, directory, etc.

Ctrl + Alt + G can be used to find selected text across a workspace in eclipse.


eclipse instasearch plugin is a very useful plugin for search needs inside eclipse. It is based on lucene. This is also available in eclipse marketplace.

It has extensive feature set.

  • Instantly shows search results
  • Shows a preview using relevant lines
  • Periodically updates the index
  • Matches partial words (e.g. case in CamelCase)
  • Opens and highlights matches in files
  • Searches JAR source attachments
  • Supports filtering by extension/project/working set

For Mac:

Quick Text Search: Shift + Cmd + L

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All other search (like File Search, Git Search, Java Search etc): Ctrl + H

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Eclipse does not search if the "File name patterns" field is empty.
So, if you want to search some text, write within "Containing text" field and leave
by default "File name patterns" with asterisk (*).

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Press Ctrl+shift+L and type your string