Cannot use a CONTAINS or FREETEXT predicate on table or indexed view because it is not full-text indexed

sql

full-text-search

performance-requirements

indexing

byNikita Barsukov·Jan 31, 2025

To counteract the error and enable full-text indexing, execute this script:

/* Step 1: Create full-text catalog. It's like a box to store the index. Fancy! */
CREATE FULLTEXT CATALOG ftCatalog AS DEFAULT;

/* Step 2: Cast the full-text index spell onto your table and column */
CREATE FULLTEXT INDEX ON YourTable(YourColumn LANGUAGE [LangCode]) -- Use 1033 for good ol' English
KEY INDEX YourPrimaryKeyIndex
ON ftCatalog;

/* Step 3: Start summoning the full-text index beast */
ALTER FULLTEXT INDEX ON YourTable START FULL POPULATION;

Please remember to replace YourTable, YourColumn, and YourPrimaryKeyIndex with the correct table name, column name, and primary key index name respectively. And don't forget to use the right LANGUAGE option code, like 1033 for English.

The SQL Server Management Studio provides a more intuitive GUI to set up the full-text indexing so you don't get lost in code. After setting it up, don't run away just yet. Patiently wait to verify the catalog creation and leave it for a while to let the index populate. And voila! CONTAINS or FREETEXT queries should swift like the wind.

The Quick and Dirty Workaround – The 'LIKE' Method

In some scenarios, immediate results outweight everything else, even though it might not be the most optimal solution. Here's how:

Harnessing 'LIKE'

If managing a small dataset and in need of instant results, consider using LIKE:

SELECT * FROM YourTable WHERE YourColumn LIKE '%keyword%'

It may be less efficient but for smaller data or temporary measures, it's a reasonable stand-in.

Weighing Between Quickness and Efficiency

When deciding between full-text search or LIKE, weigh in your performance requirements and the time you have on your disposal:

Instant results: LIKE provides immediate results without setup.
Efficient execution: Full-text indexing is ideal for larger datasets and is designed for scale and efficiency.

Preparation - The Key to Successful Implementation

Before the full-text searching magic happens:

Ensuring Proper Indexing

Full-text search needs a unique, non-nullable index:

/* Check if your table wear's the unique index crown */
SELECT * FROM sys.indexes WHERE object_id = OBJECT_ID('YourTable');

Tracking the Index Population

After casting the full-text index spell, watch it take shape. To monitor the progress:

/* Be a sport, how about some Index Popcorn while the data populates */
SELECT * FROM sys.fulltext_indexes WHERE object_id = OBJECT_ID('YourTable');

Prepping for the Full-text Search

Prepare like a pro:

Check if a full-text catalog exists or create a new one.
A unique primary key index is crucial for full-text search.
The columns you plan to search must have the "Is Full-text Indexed" property turned to true.
After enabling, refresh the object using SQL Server Management Studio for the changes to effect.