On a device having keys with multiple values, a user may perform either an iterative directory filtering operation or a direct-dial operation, without specifying which of the operations is intended. Hence, a user is allowed to perform any of a number of different operations to specify a number to be dialed or to identify a directory record, without requiring the user to specify a mode. A user's intended operation is determined by analyzing the entered keystrokes, and activates the appropriate feedback and functionality for the determined operation. In one embodiment iterative directory filtering is performed on multiple fields concurrently, including derived fields and combination fields.