Abstract: A system and method for performing complex queries in a database system. The method identifies a single type of entity in the database. A table or set of columns is formed that is used to track which entries meet the various subcriteria in a complex query through entry of binary marker bits. Logical operations may be performed on such marker bits to identify those entities meeting the specified search criteria. Through appropriate search planning, the bits may be "reused" during the query search. The method may be used in combination with, for example, index searches and other optimized searching techniques.