I have been using control F on the spread sheets for a while but all of a sudden this function changed. I dont seem to be able to search for a word?

In the past 8 months I have been using libre control F worked well in spread sheets. I could search for text, etc. Now this function seems to have changed. Suspect it is to do with an update. If I press control F Or find a side bar comes up but I can’t seem to work out how to enter the text I am searching for…

Control-F works just fine in version 4.2.8.2 which is shipped with Linux Cinnamon Mint 17. Which version of Libre Calc are you using? Please Help | About to obtain that version information.

Which OS?

Which versions of LibO? Before and after the upgrade.

Press Ctrl+F, then try to drag the bar that comes up from its upper part to the bottom of the window.

See more LibreOffice Help on Using Toolbars.