Using Windows Explorer

HOW TO use Windows Explorer to manage files

The classic program Windows Explorer has been a part of the Windows operating system for many years.  The appearance and specific functions will vary depending upon the version used.  However the essence is the same.  These procedures are for Windows 7.

Open Windows Explorer

Go to Start, Programs or All Programs, Accessories, Windows Explorer.  We recommend you copy a shortcut to Windows Explorer to your desktop.

The Windows Explorer Window

Windows Explorer is divided into two window areas.  The narrow area on the left is the Navigation pane that shows the directory or folder structure.  You should become familiar with how the hard disk is organized and what the various headings mean.  Unfortunately, Windows 7 has disabled showing the entire structure.  We recommend that it be enabled by clicking the Organize button, select Folder and Search Options from the menu.  Put a check mark in the two check boxes under Navigation pane:  Show all folders and Automatically expand to current folder.

The top section of the Navigation pane are the Favorites--"shortcuts" to areas like Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Network, Pictures, etc.

The lower section shows the actual areas used in navigation.  Navigating the directory structure is like climbing up a tree.  Desktop is the trunk.  The small triangle to the left of the folder icon indicates there are additional folders below the area.  The hollow right arrow means that those folders are hidden.  The solid arrow pointing lower right means they are shown.  Click on the triangle to show or hide the sub-folders. 

The larger right part of the window is the Contents pane that shows the contents of the folder selected in the navigation pane. You can change the view of the contents of the directory by clicking on the "Views" button in the upper right corner of the contents pane.

 The SMP2011 program is installed to the c:\lacc folder in the Computer area.  Files that SMP uses are stored in this folder or one of its sub-folders.

Selecting Files

• Select a single file by clicking one time on its name.

• Select a collection of files by holding down the ctrl key and selecting each file with a left mouse click.

• Select a range of files by selecting the first file and, while holding down the shift key, selecting the last file in the range.

File and Folder Actions

• Open file.  Double click a file to open file.

• File menu.  Right click (click with the right mouse button) a file to see of available options. One such option is WinZip. See HOW TO Use WinZip for more information.

• New folder.  Click on the Create Folder button in the Contents pane.

Glossary
Annual Information Cycle
Configuring Outlook
WinZip
Windows Explorer