How to Select Multiple Files in Windows 11
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.
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.

This action selects all the content within the folder.

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.

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

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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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.
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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