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KQL

Keyword Query Language (KQL) in SharePoint is a query syntax used to construct precise, structured search queries against the Microsoft Search index, enabling administrators and power users to filter, scope, and refine results across SharePoint sites.

Common Use Cases

  • Refining search results: build queries that combine keywords, phrases, and operators to find very specific content
  • Search-driven web parts: power the Highlighted Content and PnP Modern Search web parts with custom queries
  • Property-based filtering: target specific managed properties such as Author, FileType, ContentType, or Department
  • Search verticals and result sources: create custom verticals or result sources scoped to specific document types, sites, or business units
  • Compliance and eDiscovery: locate content for retention policies, legal holds, or audit reviews using property-based queries

Benefits

  • Precise targeting: locate exactly the content you need across millions of items in the tenant
  • Managed Property-aware: query against any managed property surfaced in the search schema
  • No-code solution: power users can build advanced queries without writing custom development code

Key Considerations

  • Learning curve: syntax, operators, and quoting rules take some practice to master
  • Property availability: only managed properties marked as queryable can be targeted in queries
  • Index timing: newly added or edited content may not appear immediately until the search index updates
  • Security trimming: results always reflect what the user is allowed to see and cannot bypass permissions