How to show favorites in file explorer Windows 11?

How to Show Favorites in File Explorer Windows 11

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction

• 1. Using the Favorites Folder

• 1. Using the Favorites Pane

• 1. Alternative Methods

1. Introduction

In Windows 11, displaying favorites in the File Explorer has been a long-standing feature. With the introduction of the new Favorites folder, it’s now easier than ever to show and manage your favorite files and folders. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of showing favorites in File Explorer Windows 11.

2. Using the Favorites Folder

The Favorites folder is a special folder that stores your favorite files and folders. To access it, follow these steps:

• Create a Favorites Folder:

  • Right-click on the desktop and select File Explorer.
  • In the File Explorer, click on View.
  • Click on Favorites in the left-hand menu.
  • Click on New.
  • Name the new folder (e.g., Favorites or Favorite Places).

• Add Favorites:

  • Right-click on the folder you just created and select Settings.
  • In the Settings window, click on View.
  • Click on Favoriting.
  • Click on Add.
  • Select the file or folder you want to add as a favorite.

• Organize Your Favorites:

  • You can organize your favorites by clicking on the three dots next to the folder name and selecting Sort by.
  • You can also add folders and files to your favorites by clicking on the + button next to the folder name.

3. Using the Favorites Pane

The Favorites pane is a new feature in File Explorer Windows 11 that allows you to view your favorite files and folders in a compact and organized way. To access it, follow these steps:

• Create a Favorites Pane:

  • Right-click on the desktop and select File Explorer.
  • In the File Explorer, click on View.
  • Click on Favorites in the left-hand menu.
  • Click on New.
  • Name the new pane (e.g., Favorites Pane or Favorits).

• Add Favorites:

  • Right-click on the Favorites pane and select Settings.
  • In the Settings window, click on View.
  • Click on Favoriting.
  • Click on Add.
  • Select the file or folder you want to add as a favorite.

4. Alternative Methods

If you prefer to use the old Favorites folder, you can still do so. To access it, follow these steps:

• Find Favorites Folder:

  • Go to File Explorer and navigate to the View tab.
  • Click on View.
  • Click on Favorites.

• View Favorites Folder:

  • Navigate to the View tab.
  • Click on Favorites.

Significant Changes

One of the most significant changes in File Explorer Windows 11 is the new Favorites folder. The old Favorites folder is still available, but it’s no longer enabled by default. This change was made to provide a more user-friendly experience and to better support modern file systems.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the Favorites Pane for Quick Access:

  • The Favorites pane is a great way to quickly access your favorite files and folders.
  • You can also pin frequently used files and folders to the Favorites pane.

• Use the Quick Access feature:

  • The Quick Access feature allows you to quickly access your favorite files and folders by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + F.
  • You can also use the Alt + F keys to quickly access your Favorites pane.

• Use the Search function:

  • The Search function in File Explorer allows you to quickly search for files and folders by using the keyboard shortcut F3.
  • You can also use the Ctrl + F keys to quickly search for files and folders.

Conclusion

Showing favorites in File Explorer Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be customized to suit your needs. Whether you prefer to use the Favorites folder or the Favorites pane, there are many ways to quickly and easily access your favorite files and folders. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get started with showing favorites in no time.