What is a "section" as referenced in the API?

Sections are a way to group different datasets in your search index. For most customers, sections only come into play when utilizing autocomplete as shown in the example below:

On the left, the section is called "Search Suggestions" and returns suggested search terms. On the right, the section is called "Products" and returns item listings.

A single autocomplete request for the term "search" hits a single index (referenced by an API key) consisting of those two sections, returning results from both.

When setting up an index for autocomplete, search, browse, and recommendations, Constructor will generally create a single index with two sections: "Search Suggestions" and "Products." Autocomplete will use both sections, but in general search, browse, and recommendations will only use "Products."

Unless otherwise agreed upon, Constructor will automatically populate the "Search Suggestions" section based on search behavior on your own site or app that is collected by the Constructor beacon.