When you have had your computer for a while, chances are you may have misplaced a file or two. Even with your best attempts to stay organized, it can be difficult to remember the name of a specific file or which folder you put it into. When this happens, don't spend hours digging through various folders in hunt of an elusive file. Instead, take advantage of Windows' ability to search through your files for the one you want.
1). Click the "Start" button.
2). Enter one or more distinctive search terms from the file you wish to locate into the text box that appears at the bottom of the list of options that come up. The box should initially contain the words "Search programs and files," but these will disappear when you click within the box to start typing. Your search terms do not need to appear in the file's title. Choosing distinctive rather than common words from the file will make it easier to find the file you are looking for.
3). Pause for a moment when you are done entering search terms. Your computer will automatically search for the file; you do not need to hit "Enter" or anything else. Type more search terms from within the document if you have too many results.
4). Read the list of results that appears above the text box containing your search terms. Click on the one that you are looking for to open it.
