How to Apply Folder View to All Folders of Same Template Type in Windows 11
Applying a folder view to all folders of the same type in Windows 11 automatically copies your custom display settings, like icon size or sort order, to every folder using that specific template.
Adjust a folder’s view settings in File Explorer, then click the three dots, select Options, go to the View tab, and click Apply to Folders. This sets the chosen layout, sort order, and column widths for all folders of the same template type.
Windows 11 uses folder templates to group similar folders, such as those for Documents, Pictures, or Music. When you set a view for one folder, like choosing large icons for a picture folder, Windows 11 can then apply that same setting to all other folders categorized as “Pictures.”
This handy feature saves you time by preventing you from having to adjust each folder individually. For example, Windows 11 remembers your icon size preference for the “Pictures” template automatically.
Apply Folder View
- Click the See more (three dots) icon in the top toolbar.
- Select Options from the menu.
- In the Folder Options window, click the View tab.
- Click the Apply to Folders button.
- Click OK to close the window.
Understanding Folder Templates vs. Folder Views
Folder templates are pre-defined layouts for different types of content, such as Documents, Pictures, or Music. Folder views are the specific settings you apply to those templates. When you change a view, you are telling Windows how to display that specific template type across your entire system.
Troubleshooting: Why ‘Apply to Folders’ Fails
Registry Editor Workaround (Advanced)
Advanced users can reset or adjust folder view settings in Windows 11 by using the Registry Editor, but it’s crucial to proceed with caution and back up your registry beforehand. This method allows for granular control over how Windows displays folders, offering a way to fix persistent issues or customize settings beyond the standard File Explorer options.
To manually reset or adjust these settings via the registry:
- Press ⊞ Win+R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to 🗝️HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags.
- You can delete the Bags and BagMRU keys to reset all folder views to default.
- Restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager to apply changes.
Summary
Keeping your folders organized in Windows 11 is simple when you can set a consistent view for similar folder types using the ‘Apply to Folders’ option.
Why does 🪟 Windows 11 keep resetting my folder view settings?
Windows 11 has a limit on how many folder view settings it can remember. When this limit is reached, it clears older settings to make room for new ones. You can try increasing the cache size in the registry or resetting your folder views to clear out corrupted data.
Does ‘Apply to Folders’ affect subfolders?
Yes, the Apply to Folders feature updates the default view for all folders using that specific template. This includes subfolders that share the same template type. It is a global change for that template, ensuring consistency throughout your File Explorer experience across your user account.
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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.
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