How to Select Multiple Files in Windows 11
You select multiple files in Windows 11 by using keyboard shortcuts or by enabling item checkboxes in File Explorer.
To select multiple files, enable item check boxes via the View menu, use CTRL + click for individual files, or SHIFT + click for a contiguous group. Press Ctrl+A to select all files in a folder.
Selecting multiple files allows you to efficiently perform actions like copying, moving, or deleting them all at once, saving you significant time. This is a fundamental skill for any Windows user wanting to manage their digital space effectively.
Windows 11 offers a straightforward method to do this. One popular technique is to enable the item checkboxes, which appear next to each file and folder when you hover over them. This visual cue makes it easy to click and select multiple items without needing to hold down any keys.
For example, a quick way to select a range of files is to click the first file, hold down the Shift key, and then click the last file in the sequence. This selects everything in between, a feature available since early versions of Windows.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
this does not work. Holding down the shift key in windows 11 no longer selects multiple files.
They must have left the move option off my Windows 11 File Explorer, oh on they left it off all Windows 11 File Explorer.
This no longer works in Windows 11. Frustrating that the author of this article is still referencing previous Windows conventions.
Ok, all – I figured it out. You have to disable the “view checkbox” feature in Folder Options. Then, the shift-select feature works to select multiple files. From your folder view, click the three dots on the right of the menu bar. Select Options>View. Find “Use Checkboxes to Select Items” and uncheck it. Now using the shift key to select multiple files/folders works as it used to.
Doesn’t WORK!!!!!!
Does not work for me either
This did not work for me. It was already unchecked. Ctrl nor shift works to select multiple folders.
Thanks! That works perfectly!!!
Songman10 way to go….It worked by clicking on similar named options in items in View, you are a Genius.
Cannot find this option
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