The Index Verborum is set up such that the user may search for data in different ways.

"Search" allows the user to look for a specific word when (s)he is uncertain of how many times Luther may have used it, or in what volumes.

Using the "Equals" option will find the exact spelling you enter. "Contains" will find every occurrence of the pattern of letters you enter. For example, 'art' will find allerzartist and altzuhart as well as art. "Begins With" and "Ends With" will find your pattern at the beginning or ending of words.

"Search by Volume" is used when the user knows which particular volume they want to target. This method is especially helpful for words that have hundreds or thousands of instances. In addition to the types of searches available for words, you can search for volumes that are greater than or less than the number of a chosen volume.

First time users should consult the Introduction to the Index Verborum for the special forms of representation of letters used in the database.