But the order does make a difference (assuming you are using LOCATE) and you doing a partial match and set exact is off.

Assume you're looking for table.field = "0000044252"

m.vseek = "0000044252"

With SET EXACT ON or OFF
locate for table.field = m.vseek
locate for m.vseek = table.field
Both find it

With SET EXACT OFF, you're looking for a field which starts with ...
m.vseek = "000004425"

locate for table.field = m.vseek > Finds a match
locate for m.vseek = table.field > Doesn't find a match

Mike