How to Delete a File

Delete unneeded files from your hard drive or from other storage media to reduce clutter and free up space on your drives. These instructions should work for most operating systems.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mac OS 9.0
• Microsoft Windows
• Data Recovery Software

Deleting a File

1. Drag the file to the Recycle Bin (Windows) or the Trash (Mac). The file remains in the Trash or Recycle Bin until you empty the bin.

Emptying the Trash or Recycle Bin

2. For Windows users, open the Recycle Bin, and choose Empty Recycle Bin from the File menu.

3. For Mac users, open the Special menu and choose Empty Trash.

Tips & Warnings

• You can choose to empty all files from the Recycle Bin or the Trash, or you can choose to delete only those you select. It is always a good idea to save a backup of your files if you are in any doubt about whether you will need them again.
• Once a file is deleted from the Trash or the Recycle Bin, it cannot be recovered without the use of special data recovery software. If you have accidentally deleted a file that you want, do not save any additional files. The lost file may be recoverable, provided you have not saved anything since you emptied the Trash/Recycle Bin. Call a professional data recovery specialist for assistance.

[pctechguy]

on 9/15/2009 If you need to recover a recently deleted file, folder, etc and have already emptied your recycling bin, fear not. There are recovery programs that allow you to restore lost files and have saved many computer owners time and money. I personally recommend the following software: http://tinyurl.com/restoremyfiles

on 11/22/2005 Select the item to be deleted, then press the right shift button and the delete button. You will be prompted to delete; click yes. The
file will be deleted without going to the recycle bin.

on 11/22/2005 Type "rm " in your shell for deleting a file on UNIX-based OS.