# Search & references

> Find drawings, specifications, submittals, and issues quickly, then follow source references to check the evidence behind an answer or finding.

Source: https://docs.specset.com/docs/search-and-references · Section: Getting Started · Last updated: 2026-10-08

Use quick search when you know the sheet, section, document, or record you need. Use the project agent when you need an answer that connects information across those sources.

## Find a record

1. Click the **search icon** in the top bar, or press **⌘K** on Mac or **Ctrl+K** on Windows.
2. Enter a sheet number, section number, title, or part of a record's name. Try a specific identifier such as **A101** before a broad phrase such as “floor plan.”
3. Select a result to open it. You can also use the arrow keys and **Enter**.

Quick search includes drawings, specifications, documents, submittals, RFIs, issues, estimates, projects, and chats. Open search without typing to return to **Recently viewed** items.

![Quick search results for roof drainage across drawings, specifications, an RFI, and an issue](https://docs.specset.com/images/docs/search-and-references/quick-search.png)

## Choose the scope

Inside a project, search starts with that project. Open the **filter** control to select a record type or turn on **All projects** to search the projects you can access in the current organization. Outside a project, search already spans your projects.

Filters are remembered. If a result seems to be missing, check the selected types and project scope, then clear filters and try its number or title. Also confirm that the document has finished processing and that you have access to the project.

## Ask a question instead

Quick search helps you navigate to records; it does not compare their requirements for you. Choose the **Question** row under **Ask AI Agent** to continue with the text you entered, or open [Chat](https://docs.specset.com/docs/project-qa).

For a useful answer, name the item and the comparison you need: “Does the roof drain size on P101 agree with the plumbing schedule?” Include the building or area when sheet numbers repeat.

## Check a source reference

References beside answers and issues link back to the evidence. Click a drawing, specification, or document reference to open it. When a reference includes a page or marked location, the viewer takes you to that context.

Read around the marked passage or cloud, then check the other cited sources. A conflict can involve two sheets that each look reasonable on their own. If the finding depends on a revision, inspect the available revisions and the project's [plan set](https://docs.specset.com/docs/plan-sets) or [spec set](https://docs.specset.com/docs/source-of-truth) order.

Issue references can also show the saved annotations and short callouts that explain the finding. Keep your own review notes with the [issue](https://docs.specset.com/docs/issues#work-through-the-review-queue) so the decision and its evidence stay together.