How to Use Favorites in Windows 11 File Explorer
Favorites in Windows 11 File Explorer are pinned shortcuts in the left sidebar that let you open important folders and files with a single click. This feature skips the need to dig through multiple nested folders every time you want to find a document.
You can add up to 50 items to your Quick Access list, ranging from a single spreadsheet to an entire project folder. Keeping your most-used items at the top of the screen saves time and helps you get to your files faster on Windows 11 version 23H2 and later.
Pin frequently used files or folders to Favorites in File Explorer for quick access. Open File Explorer , select the item, click the three dots (More options) in the command bar, and choose “Add to Favorites.” Alternatively, right-click the item and select “Add to Favorites.
What is File Explorer?
File Explorer is the built-in Windows utility used to find, organise, and manage documents across your drives. Operations like copying, moving, deleting, or renaming documents happen right inside this interface.
Why Use Favorites?
Bypassing the usual folder nesting speeds up daily workflows significantly. Frequently used documents land on this special list for rapid access. Having them ready to open without clicking through multiple directories saves time and keeps computer sessions running efficiently.
How to Add Files to Favorites
To add files to file explorer favorites in Windows 11, open File Explorer and find the document you want to keep handy. Right-click the file and choose Add to Favorites from the menu, or select the file and click the star icon on the command bar. This pins the item to your home page so you can open it quickly next time.
- Open File Explorer by clicking the folder icon on the taskbar . Or press the Win+E on your keyboard.
- Find the file you want to add. Browse through your folders until you see it.
- Click the file once to select it.
- Look at the top of File Explorer . Click the three dots (More options) on the command bar.
- Choose Add to Favorites from the menu.
Alternatively, right-click the file and select Add to Favorites from the menu that appears.
Once added, favorite files appear in the Favorites section on the Home page. Rapid access is now possible whenever required.
How to Remove Files from Favorites
To remove files from file explorer favorites when you no longer need quick access, open File Explorer and go to the Home page. Find the Favorites section, right-click the file you want to clear out, and click Remove from Favorites. The item disappears from your pinned list right away without deleting the actual file from your computer.
- Open File Explorer and go to the Home page.
- Find the Favorites section on the left side. Click to expand it if needed.
- Right-click the file you want to remove.
- Select Remove from Favorites.
That completes the process, leaving the list free of clutter.
Summary
Using file explorer favorites in Windows 11 saves you time by keeping your most important documents in one easy-to-reach place on the Home screen. Pinning files ensures you can open them instantly without digging through deep folder paths, and removing them takes just a right-click when your project is finished.- Why use Favorites? It saves time by putting your most-used files in one easy place.
- What happens when you add a file? It appears in your Favorites section so you can find it fast.
- What happens when you remove a file? It disappears from your Favorites list, keeping things neat and organized.
- Use this feature to work with your files faster and easier every day.
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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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