mdfind

Searches PDF, PPTX, and image file content in Attachments using macOS Spotlight's mdfind utility.

49|12|Updated Jan 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/DavidROliverBA/ArchitectKB --skill mdfind
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: mdfind
Source: https://github.com/DavidROliverBA/ArchitectKB/tree/main/.claude/skills/mdfind
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/DavidROliverBA/ArchitectKB --skill mdfind

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill allows you to quickly search the content of various file types within your attachments folder, leveraging your operating system's built-in indexing for fast results.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Content Search: Find specific text within PDFs, PPTX files, and OCR-indexed images.
  • Targeted Searches: Filter searches by file type (PDF, PPTX, image).
  • Use Case: You need to find a specific diagram or piece of text mentioned in a presentation slide from a previous meeting. Use this Skill to search all PPTX files in your attachments for the relevant keywords.

Quick Start

Search for the term "project roadmap" within all PDF attachments.

Frequently Asked Questions about mdfind

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I search for specific text inside PDF and PPTX attachments?

To search for specific text inside PDF and PPTX attachments, use this Skill to execute macOS Spotlight queries with content and type filters, retrieving matching files instantly without custom indexing.

Can I search for text within images stored in my attachments folder?

Yes, you can search for text within images stored in your attachments folder if the macOS Spotlight indexing has OCR data available, allowing the mdfind utility to locate text embedded inside image files.

Does this content search method require building a custom index?

No, this content search method does not require building a custom index because it operates by executing OS-level commands that leverage macOS Spotlight's built-in indexing for efficient retrieval of information embedded within documents.

What is the best way to find a specific diagram mentioned in a previous presentation slide?

The best way to find a specific diagram mentioned in a previous presentation slide is to use this Skill to search all PPTX files in your attachments directory for the relevant keywords, leveraging macOS Spotlight for fast results.

How do I filter attachment searches by specific file types like PDF or PPTX?

You filter attachment searches by specific file types like PDF or PPTX by running the Skill with targeted type filters, which instructs the macOS mdfind utility to limit its content search scope to only the specified document formats.