How To Use Advanced Search Syntax

As the CGTrader catalog grows, so does the need for smarter search – our latest update brings just that with Advanced Search Syntax. Whether you're a buyer looking for something specific or a designer wanting to understand how your models can be discovered more efficiently, this feature is designed to save time and sharpen results. Keep reading to see how to use Advanced Search Syntax to make the most of the CGTrader catalog.

TL;DR:

• New search features help you find results faster and more accurately;
• Works in both Title and Tags fields;
• Use quotes, modifiers and logic keywords for precision searching.

What’s New?

We've introduced advanced search commands that help you narrow down exactly what you're looking for. Whether you're searching for an exact phrase like "robot arm", models that must include a specific tag like +furniture, or anything that starts with a word like robot*, these tools make it easier to find the right models – without extra scrolling.

Here’s a quick reference:

Why It Matters

Better search = faster decision-making.

This new feature helps:

• Buyers pinpoint exactly what they need with less effort.
• Designers boost discoverability by ensuring their tags and titles are accurate and precise — no special symbols needed.

For example, a buyer searching for office chairs but wanting to avoid sofas could try:

"office chair" -sofa

Meanwhile, a designer just needs to tag their models correctly with keywords like chair or sofa so buyers can easily discover them.

Pro Tips to Get You Started

• Use "word" to find models with an exact phrase;
• Add +words for must-have terms;
• Use -words to exclude unwanted results;
• Combine OR, AND to refine complex searches;
• Use word* for model variations that begin with a word and a?b for short 3-letter matches (refer to the table above for examples);
• Experiment with the new syntax – it works in both Title and Tags.

To make things even easier, we’ve added an icon right inside the search bar. Hover over it to instantly open a "Search Tips & Tricks" tooltip, where you’ll find helpful examples and syntax explanations – no need to leave the page or look anything up.

What Should Designers Do?

If you're an artist, this is your moment to audit and optimize your model titles and tags. Use clear, relevant keywords that buyers are likely to search for using the new syntax. This small update could mean more visibility and more sales.

Need help optimizing your model listings? Check out our in-depth guide on how to write a winning 3D model listing.

Have suggestions or feedback? Let us know in the comments or drop us a line at support@cgtrader.com.