Steps on How to Store Data on a Flash Drive

A flash drive is a compact way to store data.

Flash drives, also known as pen drives or memory sticks, are external data-storage devices that are commonly used to store and transfer data between computers. Flash drives are about the size of a pack of gum, making them convenient to transport. Flash drives can connect to computers using a universal serial bus (USB) port, a ubiquitous data-transfer technology available on most computers.

Things You'll Need

• USB flash drive

Instructions

1. Insert the USB flash drive into an open USB port on your computer.

2. Click "Start," "My Computer" or "Computer" and then double-click on the flash drive in the list of system drives. A window for the drive will appear. Alternatively, if an auto-play or auto-launch window appears after you insert your flash drive into your computer, select "Open Folder to View Files" and click "OK."

3. Browse your computer for a file that you wish to store on the flash drive.

4. Left-click and hold on the file, drag the file over the flash drive window and release the left mouse button. Your computer will create a copy of the file on the flash drive.

5. Continue dragging and dropping files into the window for the flash drive to store all the data you wish. You may delete any file on the flash drive by right-clicking on it and selecting "Delete."

6. Click on the "Safely Remove Hardware" icon on the right-hand side of your taskbar and then select "Safely Remove USB Mass Storage Device." (The exact wording may vary somewhat depending on the device and your computer.) A prompt will appear stating that it is safe to remove the device. Unplug the flash drive from the USB port and store it in a safe location. You can plug the drive into a computer at any time to gain access to the stored files.

Tips & Warnings

• You can check how much storage space is available on a flash drive by clicking "Start," "Computer," right-clicking on the drive in the list and then selecting "Properties."

• Carrying a flash drive on a key chain can ensure that you will always be able to save data from computers and carry it with you.

References

• Wellesley College: How to Use a USB Flash Drive
• University of Alabama: Flash Drive Tutorial