How should I search for dates, amounts and reference numbers?¶

Search the forms in which a value may be written, stored and displayed, then interpret it within the surrounding artefact rather than as an isolated match.

Vary format without creating noise¶

Test plausible date orders, words, separators and two/four-digit years, and use timeline filters for dates stored only as numeric timestamps. Search amounts with currency, punctuation, decimals and - where technically relevant - minor units. Begin reference searches with the complete value before trying distinctive fragments or versions without prefixes and separators.

Connect records, not conclusions¶

A date, amount or booking, parcel, invoice or transaction reference can join messages, notifications, documents and provider records. It does not by itself establish that a transaction or event occurred. Record the variants, search settings, source, role and surrounding content that make the match meaningful.