Query Suggestions
In this article we can explore how to enable Query Suggestions in a SharePoint 2013 Search.
What Query Suggestions are
Query Suggestions are auto-complete items dynamically displayed in the Search text box. This helps the user type the complete text as well as determine relevant search phrases. Usually, Query Suggestions are based on past phrases history but we can also configure Query Suggestions.
![configure Query Suggestions]()
How to configure Query Suggestions
Open Central Administration then seelct "Service Applications" > "Search Service Application".
![Search Service Application]()
From the left hand side choose the "Query Suggestions" link. You will get the following page.
Enable the Show check box and choose the "Import from text file" option.
![Import from text file]()
You can create your own phrases text file based on the customer requirements.
I am using a sample text file that provides phrases for the state of California.
![phrases text file]()
Save the text file and assign it to the import area.
![import area]()
After importing, click "Save settings" in the Query Suggestions page.
Now we have set the phrases to "Search Service" > "Query Suggestions".
Run Timer Job
The phrases need to be returned to the Search User Interface by running the following timer job.
Open Central Administration then seelct "Monitoring" > "Job Definitions" then go to Page 2 then seelct "Prepare Query Suggestions".
![Prepare Query Suggestions]()
Click on the item and you will get the following page.
![item]()
You can see that the timer is set for daily execution, but we need to choose the "Run Now" option to get immediate results.
You can optionally use an IISRESET too.
Testing the Query
Open your SharePoint site and type "California" into the text box. Wati for 3-5 seconds and you should see the auto-suggestions listed.
![Testing the Query]()
This confirms the Query Suggestions configuration.
Connecting Query Suggestions with Promoted Results
In real-world scenarios you can connect Promoted Results key words to Query Suggestions. This will give more assistance and relevant results to the users.
Excluding Phrases
You can also exclude phrases from the Query Suggestions page.