Search for apps shows blank screen

Question

I typically open programs by hitting the windows key and then typing in the name of the program. However, currently when I start to type, most of the screen (where the results would show) is completely blank. I see the number of results along the right side
of the screen, and if I hit 'enter' it will open the first result.
Interestingly, if I search for something that doesn't exist, then the results show up, and will stay there as long as I stay on the search screen.
Similarly, the start page sometimes show up, and sometimes is just blank (when it's blank, I can still click on the screen and apps will start. I just can't see what I'm clicking on). If it is blank, I can get it back by searching for a term that returns
0 App results and hitting 'escape' to get out of the search. If I hit the Windows key again, the screen is still blank. 
What's going on?! I haven't installed updates in 2 weeks, and this just started in the last few days. 

Answer 1

if I search for something that doesn't exist, then the results show up, and will stay there as long as I stay on the search screen.
Are you referring to partial matches?  Also, you should clarify the options you are using to produce your symptom.  E.g. I use the
Show the Apps view automatically when I go to Start and leave its suboption  Search everywhere...  unchecked (in Taskbar and Navigation properties).  So, for example, for me, pressing Win- always shows 
Apps by most used  and there is always something to show even if my typing does not result in a match.
Similarly, the start page sometimes show up, and sometimes is just blank (when it's blank, I can still click on the screen and apps will start. I just can't see what I'm clicking on).
This sounds like a Second screen mode problem.  Press Win-P and see what mode you are in.  Try changing the mode to see how it changes your symptom.
HTH
Robert Aldwinckle