Mac OS X 10.5.8 Finder bug: Search window not sorting columns properly

Edited by Joe Aimonetti

A MacFixIt reader writes in to alert us to a Finder bug that does not allow column sorting in the search window. After testing this on my machine, I can confirm that it seems to be a bug.

MacFixIt reader "Paul K." reports a bug in Finder when a new search window is opened using the (Command F) keyboard shortcut:

"With no other windows or applications open, I search for a file using command-F. Then I try to sort the result list by clicking on one of the headings. Clicking once on a heading is unresponsive."

I tested this action on my black MacBook running 10.5.8 in a couple different ways. First, I opened a Finder window and used the keyboard shortcut (Command F) to begin a search. I typed in a search term that was sure to get results on my machine. I clicked on the column headings and the search was sorted according to that value--no bug.

I then closed the Finder window and clicked on the Desktop activating Finder. I used the (Command F) keyboard shortcut, bringing up a new Finder window with the search functions enabled. I typed in the same search term as I had previously. This time, however, I was not able to click on column headings to sort my search. I was able to double-click the headings, however it would only sort that column in one way (and would not change when continuously attempting to click).

Possible workarounds
Paul continues:

"Double-clicking on a heading flips the sort arrow up and back in an instant. If I keep the search results window open, open another window, then return to my search results, sorting works as expected"

I found the same workaround to be true on my machine. If you open a new search window in Finder and are not able to sort the columns of the search results, simply switch to a different window (it can be any program), and switch back.

You can also double-click and hold the second click to get the sort arrow to freeze on the type (ascending or descending) you wish to sort by.

Another workaround using keyboard strokes: Press (Command N) for a new Finder window, then (Command F) to start a search window. This will have normal column sort functionality.

Try this out and let us know if you are experiencing the same issue on your machine.

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