If you live in File Explorer (used to be called Windows Explorer) in Windows 10 or 8.1, you should remember and use these 10 essential keyboard shortcuts to use and navigate file folders more efficiently.
- Win + E – to launch File Explorer window. It’s my all time favorite and is the fastest way to fire up the File Explorer to start browsing the file system.
- Alt + Left – to go back one folder.
- Alt + Right – to go forward one folder.
- Alt + Up – to go to the parent folder.
- F2 – to rename the currently highlighted file or folder. You can use Tab key to tab down to the next file that needs to rename.
- Alt + Enter – to open the Properties window for the currently highlighted file or folder.
- Alt + P – to toggle the Preview pane.
- Ctrl + Shift + N – to create a new folder in the current folder. Press ctrl + shift + n, type the name of the new folder, hit Enter and done. Way easier than using the mouse.
- Alt + D – to set focus and highlight everything on the address bar.
- Shift + Del – to delete the highlighted files and folders without putting them in the recycle bin.
There are very simple and essential keystrokes that once remembered are going to benefit you in the long run.
Also, while we are on the topic of the File Explorer in Windows, do check out these 10 File Explorer tricks that you may not know.