How to Delete Files and Folders in Windows 11

This post shows students and new users how to delete files and folders using Windows 11. One thing is sure: you’ll want to delete a file or folder sooner or later.

You can delete a file or folder if you do not want a file or folder. To delete an item, identify and select the item and delete it. It’s that simple. This simple task works for files, shortcuts, folders, and just about anything else in Windows 11.

When you delete an item, it is moved to the Trash folder, where it is stored until you empty the trash. The trash folder is where items are kept temporarily until you empty them so that in cases where you didn’t mean to delete a folder or folder, you can always restore it to its original location.

There are multiple ways to delete files and folders in Windows. You could simply the file or folder, then select and press the DELETE key, drag the item to the Trash bin, or right-click the item and select Delete on the context menu.

Remember, when you press DELETE on a folder, it deletes all the folders, including any files or folders inside those folders. So, make sure you select the correct folder before deleting it.

To get started with deleting files and folders in Windows 11, follow the steps below:

How to send items to the Recycle bin in Windows 11

Sending items to the Recycle is also known as deleting an item. The trash bin holds items until they are emptied. You can always restore items to their original locations by emptying the trash folder when you don’t want to lose them forever.

To delete an item, do these:

1. Select the item you want to place in the trash by clicking it once.
2. Press DELETE on your keyboard. Alternatively, drag the item to the Trash bin
3. You can also click the Delete icon on the toolbar in File Explorer as highlighted below.

You could also right-click on the item you wish to delete, then select the Delete option on the context menu, as highlighted below.

Yet another way to delete items in Windows 11 is to right-click and then go to Show more options.

Then, select the Delete command on the context menu.

Once you delete the file, it will be moved to the Trash bin. The trash bin holds deleted items forever until you go in and empty them.

How to restore deleted items from Recycle bin

If you delete an item and decide you want it back, simply use the Recycle bin and restore it. When you do, the item will be restored to its original location.

Select the item you want to restore in the Recycle bin, click the ellipsis (three dots) on the toolbar, and click Restore the selected items.

To restore all items, click Restore all items.

Again, the trash folder will hold items forever until you empty them. To delete files permanently and free up disk space on your computer, you need to empty the trash.

How to permanently delete items in Windows 11

You can use the steps below to permanently delete an item without sending it to the recycle bin.

1. Select the item you want to delete.
2. Press and hold the SHIFT key, then press the DELETE key on your keyboard.
3. Because you cannot undo this, you will be asked to confirm that you want to delete the file or folder.

To lose items in the Recycle bin, simply t. When you use the SHIFT and DELETE keys, you will not have the option to restore that item.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• Deleting files and folders in Windows 11 is straightforward, offering multiple methods for your convenience.
• Items moved to the Recycle bin can be restored, providing a safety net for accidental deletions.
• Permanent deletion is possible by using the SHIFT + DELETE key combination; this action cannot be undone.
• Regularly managing the Recycle bin is essential for maintaining disk space and ensuring your system runs smoothly.
• Familiarizing yourself with these deletion methods enhances your efficiency while using Windows 11.