7sDoc Lite

7sDoc Lite enables you to search for words or phrases within documents by scanning multiple files at the same time. It offers support for DOC, DOCX, XLS, RTF, TXT, HTM and HTML files.

Search for words or phrases inside multiple documents

This application contains a few practical options that might seem confusing at its first run. However, after playing with it for a short time, you'll likely notice how easy it is to handle.
It's wrapped in a classical-looking interface made from simple windows with a minimalistic layout, where you can get started by configuring settings. The utility works with search indexes to deliver the most relevant search results.

Build indexes to get instant search results

New indexes can be created in database DB files by specifying a profile name, index title, and the directories you wish to include in the scan scope. By default, 7sDoc Lite searches for text in all files with all supported extensions.
However, you can edit this filter by excluding any file types, or even by indicating complete file names. This last option comes in handy when you have a clearer idea of where the information you're looking for might be.

Add directory paths and apply file type filters

It's possible to create as many indexes as you want, each having multiple directory paths with different file filters. Their properties can be edited anytime; for example, folder paths or entire indexes can be removed. Moreover, you can rebuild the indexes to keep your searches updated with new and changed text documents in the specified directories.
Once the indexes are built, you can start performing searches (within one index at a time). The tool lists each file which contains at least one occurrence of the full / partial word or phrase, along with a preview, and it gives you the possibility to open a file in the associated text editor by just clicking its full path. Searched keywords are recorded to history.

Evaluation results and observations

Because the tool relies on indexes, it carries out search operations instantly. Command lines are supported, while logs with the program's activity are automatically created for your inspection. It worked smoothly in our tests, without causing Windows to hang, crash or prompt error messages. Unsurprisingly, it had minimal impact on computer performance. It might be difficult to figure out at first, but the app contains a comprehensive help manual

Conclusion

To wrap it up, 7sDoc Lite offers a simple and effective solution to help you search for words or phrases inside multiple text documents at once. It delivers speedy and relevant search results, thanks to indexes.