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How to Select Multiple Files in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Aug 4, 2021 Updated Jul 14, 2026 2 min read
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Selecting multiple files in Windows 11 lets you manage your documents and pictures much faster.

This skill is key to quickly renaming, moving, or deleting several items at once, saving you clicks and time.

You can pick individual files by holding down the CTRL key while clicking on each one you want. This is perfect when items aren’t next to each other.

To grab a whole block of files, click the first one, then hold down the SHIFT key and click the last one. Everything in between gets selected automatically.

For a super quick shortcut, pressing Ctrl+A selects every single file and folder in the current window.

⚡ Quick Answer

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.

How to select all files and folders in 🪟 Windows 11

We’ve covered the basics of selecting files and folders. In Windows 11, the steps below will also come in handy.

To select all files and folders in Windows 11, use the toolbar. Use the toolbar’s ellipsis (three dots) to find the “Select all” option on the context menu.

Windows 11 interface showing multiple files selected with CTRL key.
windows 11 select all files and folders

This action selects all the content within the folder.

Windows 11 toolbar showing the 'Select all' option in the ellipsis menu.
windows 11 select all from toolbar

You can then perform basic tasks like copying, moving, deleting, and other commands.

While holding down the CTRL key, click each file and folder you want to select. Each item will be highlighted as you click. Once finished, all chosen items will be selected.

Demonstration of selecting multiple files using the SHIFT key in Windows.
windows shfit select all

Hold the SHIFT key on your keyboard, then click the top and bottom items. Everything in between will be selected too.

Windows 11 file explorer with files selected using the SHIFT key method.
windows 11 shift select all

That completes this method.

Conclusion:

  • Selecting multiple files and folders in Windows 11 can enhance your efficiency.
  • Use the CTRL key to select individual items without deselecting others.
  • Hold down the SHIFT key to select a continuous range of files and folders.
  • The Ctrl+A shortcut is a quick way to select everything in a folder.
  • Access the toolbar’s ellipsis for the “Select all” option when needed.
  • Familiarize yourself with these techniques to streamline your file management tasks.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

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.

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13 Comments

  • this does not work. Holding down the shift key in windows 11 no longer selects multiple files.

    Reply
  • Samuel Stewart

    They must have left the move option off my Windows 11 File Explorer, oh on they left it off all Windows 11 File Explorer.

    Reply
  • Songman10

    This no longer works in Windows 11. Frustrating that the author of this article is still referencing previous Windows conventions.

    Reply
  • Songman10

    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.

    Reply
  • Thanks! That works perfectly!!!

    Reply
  • Songman10 way to go….It worked by clicking on similar named options in items in View, you are a Genius.

    Reply
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