In a filing cabinet paper documents are stored in file folders; each given individual names. Information is grouped by subject and all the data dealing with a particular subject is placed in the same file folder and then placed in the filing cabinet. These folders are then arranged in numerical or chronological order, ensuring information is easily accessible.
Organizing and labeling files in this manner can be applied to your electronic documents. Information is stored in individual data files. Each document or data file has an assigned name. Data files containing similar information can then be grouped together in electronic file folders, and no two files in the same folder can have the same name. Each folder is then assigned its own label. The computer’s filing cabinet is its hard drive and floppy disks.
Windows Explorer is the file manager that allows you to view and maintain your computer’s filing system and keep it current. Using Explorer, you can copy, move, delete, and rename files. You can create new folders and subfolders to contain your growing data.
The main window of the Windows Explorer is divided into two display areas. On the left-hand side is the ALL FOLDERS pane which displays all of the main directories and folders stored on your computer. The right side or CONTENTS displays the contents of your selected drives or folders.
You can use Windows Explorer to view the contents of your harddisk. Load Windows Explorer by clicking on START, go to PROGRAMS and then Click Windows Explorer. In the left pane, click the letter that indicates your hard disk; usually this is a represented by a (C:) The contents of your hard disk (drive) appear in the right pane.
Folders can contain both files and more folders. Some of these are associated with specific programs. These are the program files placed on your system when you install a new software program. Other folders can be set up by the user, these files are called data files and can be stored in organized, logical areas. To display the contents of any folder, click the folder in the Directory Tree (left) pane so that it opens. Contents willbe displayed in the right pane.
Files are normally arranged alphabetically. You can also arrange files by type, date, or size. Click the View menu, and then select Arrange Icons. A submenu comes up from which you can choose different arrangement options. This feature can be useful in finding files, when the name is not clear. Free File Upload