Final answer:
Tools used to find specific records or data based on particular characteristics are known as search functions or query tools, commonly used in archival research.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tools that are used to find information, a specific record, or a specific field entry based on specific characteristics of the information are often referred to as query tools or search functions within database systems. These tools allow users to input certain criteria to locate information that matches these criteria. This can include searching for data in public records, databases, or archival material. For instance, a marketing manager might use these tools to search for customer age data, or a librarian might use them to determine the proportion of library users who are children.
In the context of research, this approach is known as archival research. Archival research involves examining past records or data sets to look for interesting patterns or relationships, often employing methods like content analysis to systematically record and analyze information from secondary data as it relates to the study at hand.