These File Explorer shortcuts for Windows 11 save you clicks. You probably open File Explorer dozens of times a day, and a handful of shortcuts, like Win + E and Ctrl + L, make moving around your files much faster. You won't need to touch the mouse as often.
File Explorer Shortcuts to Open and Navigate
- Win + E: Open File Explorer from anywhere.
- Alt + ↑: Go up one folder level.
- Alt + ← / →: Go back and forward, just like in a web browser.
- Ctrl + L (or Alt + D): Jump to the address bar so you can type or paste a path.
- Ctrl + E (or F3): Jump to the search box.
File Explorer Shortcuts to Manage Files
- Ctrl + Shift + N: Create a new folder.
- F2: Rename the selected file. Press Tab to jump to the next file and rename it too.
- Alt + Enter: Show properties for the selected item.
- Ctrl + A: Select everything in the folder.
- Alt + P: Show or hide the preview pane.
How to Show File Extensions and Other Handy Tricks
- Open a terminal in any folder: Click the address bar, type
cmdorpowershell, and press Enter. - Show file extensions: Go to View > Show > File name extensions so you can see whether a file is .jpg, .png, .docx, and so on.
- Pin favorites: Right-click a folder and choose Pin to Quick access for one-click access.
- Change the view size: Hold Ctrl and scroll the mouse wheel to zoom icons larger or smaller.
Warning: Shift + Delete Skips the Recycle Bin
Shift + Delete deletes a file permanently, skipping the Recycle Bin. It's fast, but use it carefully because there's no easy undo.
Summary: The 3 File Explorer Shortcuts to Learn First
Learn just three: Win + E to open, Ctrl + L to type a path, and F2 to rename. They'll pay off every day. For more time-savers, see Windows 11 Clipboard History.
Related guides
- Windows 11 Clipboard History: Use Win + V to Paste More
- PowerToys for Windows 11: 7 Free Tools Worth Installing
Which shortcut was new to you? Tell me in the comments.
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