In Windows Vista, a new type of folders called the search folders have been introduced. These search folders are virtual folders that can be used to save your searches. Yes, literally save your searches. Here is how it works.
Say you want to search for all the Microsoft Word files in your computer. Just open the search explorer by selecting Start -> Search or by typing Windows Key + F. You will be presented with a search box where you have to type in "*.doc". By default, Vista searches only the indexed locations in your PC. Indexing locations helps Vista find files within them quickly. We can modify the default locations by using the advanced search option that can be invoked by clicking on the "Advanced Search" option present on the right top of the explorer window under the search box. After hitting search Vista will display all the Microsoft Word files that are found in the location you specified.
Many of us do these kind of common searches on a regular basis. This is where Vista's search folders come into play. Once you have finished searching for what you need, you can save your search to a folder called a search folder. This folder can be named anything and can be placed anywhere on your PC. The next time you want to repeat the search, just open the search folder you have saved. Vista automatically updates your search folders in the background and presents you with fresh and up-to-date results.
Once you start using search folders, they become indispensable. The searches are stored in a folder called searches under your user account. (Start -> User Name -> Searches). It is better to leave them there so that you need not search for the search folders again!
Here is a link to Advanced Search Techniques from Windows Team Blog.
Advanced Search Techniques : Windows Vista Team Blog
