Using Windows Explorer

Quick Reference

Sorting columns:

Click on a column head (Name, Size, etc.) to sort by that column. Click again to perform a reverse sort.

Displaying information:

Right-click anywhere in the right window and choose View. Experiment with the available options to see what's right for you.

Single windows or multiple windows?

Use Tools - Folder Options - General tab, and select either "open each folder in the same window" or "open each folder in its own window."

Performing functions without the mouse:

Display a drive or directory:	Type drive or directory into the Address box and hit Enter.
Rename the selected folder or file:	F2
Open the Find Files window:	F3
Drop down the Address box:	F4
Refresh the display:	F5
Move between panes:	Tab
Activate the right-click menu:	Shift-F10
Open the Properties window:	Alt-Enter
Select all files in a folder:	Ctrl-A
Copy the selected item(s):	Ctrl-C
Paste the previously copied/deleted items:	Ctrl-V
Undo the last action:	Ctrl-Z
Go to the parent folder:	Backspace
Expand the folders under a selection:	+ (on keypad)
Collapse the folders under a selection:	- (on keypad)
Display all columns:	Ctrl-+ (on keypad)

Reviewed 1/13/10 | News Feed