Tip of the Week: How to Locate a Lost File

It’s easy to get scatterbrained when things get busy. When this happens, you can forget important things like where you placed your keys, and where you saved your computer file. To help you out, here are some tips on how to locate a missing file. As far as your missing keys go, did you check underneath the couch?

First off, don’t panic if you can’t locate your file. The only way that it would be gone for good is if you intentionally deleted it, something you would surely remember, right? Even if you did accidentally delete your file, there’s still a chance to recover it if you have faithfully been backing up your data. Consider this our friendly reminder on the importance of data backup.

If it’s the case that you simply can’t locate a needed file, then take advantage of your operating system’s document search feature. If you remember the exact file name, then the search feature will find it right away. If you’re not exactly sure of the file name, then try multiple searches using a variation of words that closely resemble your topic. You might get lucky with a good guess.If the file name completely eludes you, then you can do a more in-depth search and look for words that you know are in the file. Due to the amount of content your PC will scan, a search like this will take longer than simply looking for a file name, but a thorough search is likely to yield what you’re looking for.

Searching for a File in Windows 7
To locate a file in Windows 7, go to the Start Menu and enter what you’re looking for in the Search Box, located in the bottom left of the Start Menu. Hit Enter to begin your search. To customize what you’re looking for, just follow the directions.

Search for a File in Windows 8
In Windows 8, you can search for a file from the Charms Bar, located on the right side of the screen. From here, select Files, and then enter your search in the form. Select Enter to begin your search. Customize your search as needed.

Now, once you have located your precious file, be sure to save it in a place that’s easy to remember. For example, it would make sense to move a needed file that’s buried deep in your Downloads folder to a more appropriate folder in My Documents that corresponds with the subject of your file.

If you’re still unable to locate your important files, keys, or anything else like a book, then give Jan Hankl’s Flank Pat System a try: