How to Use Favorites in Windows 11 File Explorer
Favorites in Windows 11 File Explorer are quick shortcuts that sit in the left-hand sidebar so you can open important folders and files in one click. This feature lets you skip clicking through multiple folders to find what you need.
You can add almost any item to your Favorites list, from a single spreadsheet to a massive project folder. Keeping your most-used items at the top of the screen saves time and helps you work faster on your PC.
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?
For the uninitiated, 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
Pinning a file to your File Explorer Favorites in Windows 11 makes retrieval instantaneous. Launch File Explorer, locate the target file, click the file once, and then click the star icon next to the file’s name. The file then shows up in your Favorites list.
- 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
Clearing out outdated entries from the sidebar takes a couple of clicks, keeping the quick access list organised. Navigate to the Home page in File Explorer, locate the Favorites section, right-click the file for removal, and then choose 'Remove from Favorites'. The item disappears from the list immediately.
- 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 time by placing frequently accessed files in a single location. Pinning high-priority documents ensures they remain readily available. When an item no longer requires a spot in that convenient area, clearing it out takes minimal effort.- 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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