How to Save a Word Processing File

Electronic file formats have revolutionized the way the world communicates. Documents can be created, saved and sent without touching a sheet of paper. One of the more common electronic document formats is word processing. A word processing application allows you to use your computer in place of a traditional typewriter and create a number of documents that can be stored, manipulated and sent electronically before it ever reaches a printer. Saving these documents properly after creation is one of the most crucial steps for ensuring that they are accessible at a later date.

Instructions

1. Create a word processing document. Whether you choose to use a pre-formatted template or create your own document, the process is much the same. Simply open your word processing software by either double clicking the icon on your desktop or access it from your Programs menu.

2. Create a folder. After you have created your document, it will be time to determine the best place to save a copy. The best way to manage word processing documents is to file them into folders. To create a new folder, open your My Documents folder. Click on "Start," then "Documents" and "My Documents." Click on "File," then "New," then "Folder." A new folder will appear in the window. Type the new folder's name into the highlighted section under the folder.

3. Save your document. Bring your word processing document back to the front by clicking on it from the title bar below your workspace. Click on "File," then "Save As." A new dialog box will open, generally in the "My Documents" folder. If, when you perform this function, the computer does not automatically open into "My Documents," scroll through the list of folders until you find it. Double click on the folder you previously created and then name your word processing document. The name should reflect something about the file itself; however, any name will work as long as you can remember which document the title is referring to. After you name the document, click "OK."

4. Retrieve the document. If you find that you need to reopen the document after saving it, simply open "My Documents" and double click on the folder in which the document is saved. Double click on the document icon. The document will then reopen for modification and/or sharing.

References

• Office.microsoft.com: Save a Document in Word