Mapbox Search Patterns

This is essentially a decision tree for anyone working with Mapbox's search APIs. It tells you which tool to reach for based on query type: search_and_geocode for specific places and brands, category_search for generic types like "coffee shops nearby", and reverse_geocode for coordinates to addresses. The real value is in the parameter guidance, especially around proximity versus bbox versus country filters. Proximity biases results without hard boundaries, bbox creates strict geographic constraints, and you can combine them. The tool selection matrix is handy when you're second-guessing whether "Target stores" should use the brand search or category search (it's brand, even when plural).