Advanced Query Search Using PHP

This code snippet works only if you’re using an Advanced Query Loop block from Kadence Blocks Pro. It uses a search filter when the a user is actively searching for something specific and returns the results by relevance.

add_filter( 'kadence_blocks_pro_query_loop_query_vars', function( $query, $ql_query_meta, $ql_id ) {
    if ( ! empty( $query['s'] ) ) {
        $query['orderby'] = 'relevance';
        $query['order'] = 'DESC';
    }
    return $query;
}, 10, 3 );

Where to Add This Code

Here are two easy options:

Option 1: Install WPCode Lite Plugin

This is by far the safest method and is beginner friendly if you’re not used to editing theme files.

1. Search for WPCode Lite plugin in your website dashboard.
2. Install the plugin.
3. Go to Snippets > Add New.
4. Give your snippet a name like “Order Advanced Query Loop Search Results By Relevance.”
5. Paste the code above.
6. Choose “Run snippet everywhere”.
7. Choose PHP, not CSS or any other.
8. Save and activate.

✅ Done!

Option 2: Functions.php

We don’t advise this option unless you’re a developer or if you feel comfortable editing theme files:

1. Open your functions.php file.
2. Paste the snippet at the bottom.
3. Save and upload if needed.

💡 Tip: Always use a child theme to avoid losing changes when your theme updates.

For a more informative article check out: ‘How to Add Gutenberg Editor to WooCommerce: A Friendly Guide Modernizing Your Shop Page!‘

NOTE: We use WPCode Lite because it’s more flexible than others, there’s no need to upgrade to pro unless you’re a developer, it offers many free snippets, can choose where to run it, won’t publish if the code is wrong so won’t break your site, PHP is included compared to others you have to buy the their pro, and best of all the free version can easily be downloaded from your WordPress Repository.