How to Select Multiple Files in Windows 11
Learning to select multiple files in Windows 11 saves you a lot of time. Why do you need this? Because it makes moving, copying, or deleting groups of files much faster than doing them one by one. What happens when you are done? You will be able to manage your folders like a pro.
Selecting individual files
To pick specific files that are not next to each other, hold down the CTRL key on your keyboard. While holding it, click on each file you want. This keeps your previous selections active.
Selecting a group of files
To pick a whole list of files at once, click the first file. Then, hold down the SHIFT key and click the last file in the group. Windows will highlight everything between the two files you clicked.
Using the keyboard shortcut
If you want to select every single item in a folder, just click inside the folder and press CTRL + A on your keyboard.
Using the Windows 11 Toolbar
You can also use the menu at the top of your folder window:
- Open the folder you want to work in.
- Click the three dots (ellipsis) in the top toolbar.
- Select Select all from the menu that appears.
Advanced Tip: Command Line
If you need to perform actions on all files via the command line, you can use specific commands. Note that some advanced file operations may require admin privileges. You can open a terminal and use paths like C:\Windows\System32 to manage files directly.
Summary
- Use CTRL + click to pick specific, non-connected files.
- Use SHIFT + click to pick a continuous block of files.
- Press CTRL + A to select everything in a folder instantly.
- Use the three-dot menu at the top of the window for a visual “Select all” option.
Mastering these simple shortcuts helps you organize your computer and stay productive.
Was this guide helpful?
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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