How to Delete Files in Windows

Deleting a file in Windows usually just means moving it to the Recycle Bin where it can be easily recovered. The Recycle Bin can be configured to actually delete files instead of holding them for recovery, but this action is only recommended for experienced users. The following steps will show you how to delete a file.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find the file you wish to delete in Windows Explorer. New users may wish to look in My Documents and its subfolders first. Do this by clicking on the "Start" button and then click on "My Documents."

2. Use Search to find the file to be deleted. Click on the "Start" button and select "Search." Enter the full or partial file name to retrieve a matching list. Select the file you wish to delete by left-clicking on it. Use one of the following four steps to delete the file.

3. Look under the "File and Folder Tasks" section in the upper left part of the Explorer Window. Click on the link that reads "Delete this file."

4. Click on the "File" menu item and click on "Delete."

5. Press the "Delete" key on the computer's keyboard.

6. Place the mouse cursor over the file to be deleted and right click to bring up the context menu. Click on "Delete item."

7. Confirm your deletion by clicking the "Yes" button when asked.

Tips & Warnings

• Permanently delete a file by holding down the "Shift" key and dragging the file to the Recycle Bin. The file cannot be retrieved from the Recycle Bin when deleted this way.

Resources

• Learn more about deleting a file in Windows.