If you’re used to finding specific text on a computer using the “Ctrl+F” function, you might be wondering how to pull off the same trick on an iPad. The good news? It’s actually pretty simple. All you need to do is use the built-in search functionality in Safari or another browser. Here’s a quick rundown on how to control F on an iPad: open Safari, tap the address bar, type the term you’re searching for, scroll down to “On This Page,” and voila! You’ve just searched for text on a webpage.
How to Control F on iPad
This step-by-step tutorial will guide you on how to search for specific text on a webpage using an iPad. By the end, you’ll be a pro at locating any word or phrase quickly.
Step 1: Open Safari
Launch the Safari app on your iPad.
Opening Safari is as easy as finding its icon on your home screen. It’s usually represented by a blue compass. Tap it to open the browser.
Step 2: Navigate to a Webpage
Go to the webpage where you want to search for text.
Simply type a URL into the address bar, or use a search engine to find the page you need. Once you’re on the webpage, you’re ready to search.
Step 3: Tap the Address Bar
Tap the address bar at the top of the screen.
When you tap the address bar, your keyboard will pop up, and you can start typing.
Step 4: Type the Search Term
Type the term you’re looking for into the address bar.
As you type, suggestions may appear. Ignore them for now; focus on your specific search term.
Step 5: Scroll Down to “On This Page”
Scroll down through the suggestions until you see the “On This Page” section.
You’ll see a section called “On This Page” with your search term highlighted. Tap it to view results.
Step 6: View Search Results
Tap on the search result under “On This Page.”
After you tap, Safari will highlight the searched term on the webpage, making it easy to spot.
After you’ve completed these steps, Safari will highlight every instance of the word or phrase you searched for on the webpage. This feature makes it incredibly easy to find exactly what you’re looking for without having to scroll endlessly.
Tips for How to Control F on iPad
- Use specific search terms to get more accurate results.
- Make sure you’re on the correct webpage before searching.
- If you’re using a different browser, like Chrome, the process may slightly vary.
- You can use this method in both portrait and landscape modes.
- Practice makes perfect; try searching different terms to get the hang of it.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Control F on iPad
Can I use this method in other browsers?
Yes, most other browsers on iPad, like Chrome, offer similar search functionalities.
Does this work on iPhones too?
Absolutely. The process is almost identical on iPhones.
What if I don’t see the “On This Page” section?
Make sure you’ve typed enough of your search term. Sometimes, it takes a few extra letters to trigger the section.
Can I search for multiple terms at once?
Unfortunately, you can only search for one term at a time using this method.
Is there a keyboard shortcut like on a computer?
No, iPads don’t have the same keyboard shortcuts, but this method is quick and easy.
Summary of How to Control F on iPad
- Open Safari.
- Navigate to a webpage.
- Tap the address bar.
- Type the search term.
- Scroll down to “On This Page.”
- View search results.
Conclusion
Learning how to control F on iPad can save you a ton of time, especially if you frequently find yourself needing to locate specific information on lengthy webpages. While it might not be as straightforward as hitting “Ctrl+F” on a computer, the steps are simple and effective once you get the hang of them. So, next time you’re browsing on your iPad and need to find something specific, remember these steps. If you want to become even more efficient, consider exploring other browsing tips and tricks. Happy searching!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.