Learn advanced search techniques to find items using natural language and unlock the full power of Smthy's AI-driven search.
Semantic search is one of Smthy's most powerful features, but many users only scratch the surface of what's possible. This guide teaches you advanced techniques to find exactly what you need, even when you don't know the exact words to use.
Traditional search requires exact keyword matches. Semantic search understands meaning, context, and relationships - just like how landscape architects think about projects.
The key to mastering semantic search is understanding how to provide context that helps AI understand your intent.
Search: "drought tolerant screening plants for Melbourne"
Finds: Pittosporum, Viburnum, Photinia varieties suitable for Melbourne climate
Search: "low maintenance groundcover for heavy foot traffic"
Finds: Zoysia grass, Dichondra, hardy sedge varieties
Search: "plants"
Result: Too broad, returns thousands of irrelevant items
Search: "stuff for garden"
Result: Vague terms don't help AI understand your needs
Master these search patterns to find exactly what you need in any landscape architecture project.
"plants that won't damage pool equipment"
Finds non-invasive root systems, no fruit drop
"paving that stays cool in summer heat"
Finds light-coloured, permeable options
"coastal plants for windy balcony garden"
Finds salt-tolerant, wind-resistant varieties
"shade trees for narrow suburban driveway"
Finds columnar forms, non-invasive roots
"retaining wall under $200 per linear metre"
Finds timber, block, or basic concrete options
"complete irrigation system for 300sqm under $3000"
Finds suitable drip or sprinkler packages
Combine semantic search with filters to narrow results quickly and precisely.
Find plants by their characteristics rather than names - perfect when you know what you want but not specific varieties.
Search for items based on project types and contexts - Smthy understands landscape architecture workflows.
"child-safe plants for family garden"
Non-toxic, no thorns, soft foliage
"low maintenance plants for busy professionals"
Drought tolerant, slow growing, disease resistant
"corporate landscaping low water use"
Professional appearance, minimal irrigation
"shopping centre plantings vandal resistant"
Tough, fast recovery, security considerations
Specify what you DON'T want to narrow results:
Find alternatives or similar items:
Include timing in your searches:
Know when your search technique is working effectively.
Build a library of effective searches for different project types and client needs.
Share effective searches with team members so everyone benefits from proven search strategies. Include notes about when and why to use each saved search.