File Explorer is the heart of Windows file management, but many users overlook its powerful features. Whether you’re organizing family photos, tracking down a lost document, or simply tidying up your PC, knowing a few File Explorer tricks can save you time and effort. Here are 12 essential tips every beginner should know, presented with practical steps and examples.
What is File Explorer and Why is it Important?
File Explorer (or Windows Explorer) is the default way to browse, open, and manage files and folders on your computer. Understanding its features equips you to be more productive, organized, and confident when handling your data.
How Can You Quickly Open File Explorer?
Press the Windows key + E on your keyboard. This instantly opens a new File Explorer window, no matter what else you’re doing. Alternatively, click the folder icon on your taskbar.
How to Pin Frequently Used Folders for Easy Access?
Right-click any folder and select “Pin to Quick Access.” This adds the folder to the Quick Access panel on the left, so you don’t have to dig through layers of directories every time.
Example: Pin your “Downloads” or “Work Docs” folder for one-click access.
What’s the Fastest Way to Search for Files?
Use the search box in the upper-right corner of File Explorer. Start typing the file name or extension and press Enter. For more targeted results, open the folder where you think your file is, then search from there.
Example: To find all Word documents, type *.docx.
How Can You Preview Files Without Opening Them?
In the View tab, click “Preview pane.” When you click a file, you’ll see its contents in a side window—works great for images, PDFs, and text files.
How to Select Multiple Files Effortlessly?
Hold the Ctrl key and click each file you want to select. For a range, click the first file, hold Shift, and click the last file in the group. This helps when moving, copying, or deleting multiple files at once.
How Can You Sort and Group Files for Clarity?
In the View tab, use “Sort by” or “Group by” options to organize files by date modified, type, size, or other criteria. This makes large folders easier to navigate.
Example: Group your vacation photos by date taken to see them in chronological order.
What’s the Benefit of Using File Extensions?
File extensions (like .jpg, .docx, .pdf) show what type of file you’re dealing with. To view them, go to the View tab and check “File name extensions.” This helps prevent confusion and accidental file mishandling.
How to Rename Multiple Files at Once?
Select all files you want to rename, right-click, and choose Rename. Type a new name and press Enter—Windows will number them automatically.
Example: Rename all files from your camera to “Vacation2024 (1), Vacation2024 (2), etc.”
What’s the Safest Way to Move or Copy Files?
Drag and drop files with your mouse, but to copy (instead of move), hold the Ctrl key while dragging. Alternatively, right-click and choose “Copy” or “Cut,” then right-click the destination and select “Paste.”
How to Manage Storage with Glary Utilities?
As you organize files, you might notice unnecessary duplicates or large clutter. Glary Utilities offers a File Management feature that scans for duplicate files and helps you delete them safely. It also offers a secure file shredder and disk space analyzer, making regular cleanup simple and effective for beginners.
How to Recover Accidentally Deleted Files?
Check the Recycle Bin first—right-click and restore any files you find. For more advanced recovery, Glary Utilities provides a file recovery tool that can help you retrieve files that are no longer in the Recycle Bin.
How Can You Share Files Quickly?
Right-click any file or folder and select “Send to,” then choose “Compressed (zipped) folder” to create a zip file. This makes it easier to email or share large groups of files.
How to Customize File Explorer for Your Needs?
Right-click the Quick Access panel to remove folders you don’t use. Use the View tab to switch between list, details, or large icon views depending on your preference and the type of files you’re browsing.
In Summary
Mastering File Explorer is about using its shortcuts and features to stay organized and save time. Try combining these tips—like pinning folders, using search, and previewing files—to create a smoother workflow. Don’t forget, Glary Utilities can help you with the more advanced tasks like cleaning up clutter and recovering deleted files, making it a perfect companion for every Windows beginner. With these basics, you’ll handle files and folders with greater ease and confidence.