Have you ever saved a file on your computer and then couldn’t remember where you put it? Don’t worry — you’re not alone! Windows 10 has several built-in tools that make finding lost files quick and easy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find a file in Windows 10 using different methods — from the search bar to advanced File Explorer options.
Why It’s Important to Know How to Find Files
Finding files efficiently saves time and keeps your workflow smooth. Whether it’s a work document, photo, video, or downloaded installer, knowing where your files are helps prevent frustration and duplication. Windows 10 makes searching easier with smart indexing and keyword recognition.
Method 1: Use the Windows Search Bar
Step 1: Locate the Search Bar
- Look for the search box on your taskbar, next to the Start button.
- If you don’t see it, right-click the taskbar, choose Search, and click Show search box.
Step 2: Type the File Name
Start typing the name (or part of it) of the file you’re looking for.
Windows will instantly show suggestions and results as you type.
Step 3: Review the Results
You’ll see files, folders, apps, and even settings related to your search.
Click “Open file location” if you want to see where the file is stored.
Method 2: Use File Explorer’s Search Box
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Press Windows + E or click the folder icon on your taskbar.
Step 2: Choose a Location to Search
Navigate to the drive or folder where you think the file might be (e.g., Documents, Downloads, or Desktop).
Step 3: Enter the File Name
At the top-right corner, you’ll see a search box. Type your file name, extension, or keyword there.
Step 4: Wait for the Results
Windows will display files matching your search. You can stop the search early if you spot the file you need.
Method 3: Search by File Type or Extension
Sometimes, you might not remember the file’s name — only its type.
Examples of Search Queries:
*.docx→ finds all Word documents*.jpg→ finds all image files*.mp3→ finds all audio files*.pdf→ finds all PDF documents
Just type the extension into the search bar and press Enter.
Method 4: Use Date Filters
Looking for something you edited recently? You can filter by date.
Step 1: Open File Explorer and Click the Search Box
Once you click inside the search box, you’ll see a Search tab appear at the top.
Step 2: Choose “Date Modified”
Click Date modified → select Today, This week, This month, or A specific date range.
Windows will now show files that were changed during that time.
Method 5: Use Advanced Search Filters
For even more precise results, you can use advanced search filters in File Explorer.
Useful Search Filters:
- **kind:**document
- **kind:**picture
- **kind:**music
- size:>10MB
- **date:**last week
Example:
kind:document AND date:today
This will show documents modified today only.
Method 6: Search from the Start Menu
If you’re unsure where the file might be, try this:
- Click the Start menu.
- Begin typing the file’s name directly.
Windows will automatically search your apps, files, and settings simultaneously.
Method 7: Check the “Recent Files” List
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Go to Quick Access (the default screen).
Step 2: View Recent Files
You’ll see a list of recently opened files under “Recent files.”
This is especially helpful if you just worked on something and forgot where you saved it.
Method 8: Use Cortana for Voice Search
If you prefer using voice commands:
Step 1: Activate Cortana
Click the microphone icon in the search bar or say “Hey Cortana” (if enabled).
Step 2: Ask Cortana to Find Your File
Say something like:
“Find my PowerPoint presentation”
“Search for budget spreadsheet”
Cortana will display matching results from your computer and OneDrive.
Method 9: Use File History or OneDrive Search
If you’ve lost a file that might be synced to the cloud:
- Open OneDrive → use its search box to locate your file.
- Or open Control Panel → File History to restore older file versions.
Method 10: Use Command Prompt for Advanced Search
If File Explorer isn’t helping, the Command Prompt can find hidden or deep system files.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Use the “dir” Command
Type the following:
dir "filename.*" /s
This searches the entire drive for any file that matches your keyword.
Method 11: Search Hidden Files
Some files are hidden by default. To include them:
Step 1: Open File Explorer → View Tab
Click View, then check Hidden items.
Step 2: Run the Search Again
Now you’ll also see files that were previously hidden from normal searches.
Method 12: Check the Downloads Folder
It sounds simple, but many people forget — most downloaded files go straight to the Downloads folder.
Open File Explorer → This PC → Downloads and sort files by Date modified to find the most recent ones.
Method 13: Use Search Indexing Options
If your searches feel slow or incomplete, your indexing settings might need adjusting.
Step 1: Open Control Panel → Indexing Options
Search for Indexing Options in the Control Panel.
Step 2: Modify Indexed Locations
Click Modify, then select which drives or folders you want Windows to index for faster searches.
Step 3: Rebuild the Index
If searches still don’t work well, click Advanced → Rebuild to refresh the search index.
Method 14: Use Third-Party Search Tools
If you want lightning-fast searches, you can try third-party tools like:
- Everything by VoidTools
- Listary
- UltraSearch
These programs scan your files and offer near-instant results, often faster than Windows Search.
Method 15: Search Inside Documents
Need to find text inside a file, like a keyword in a Word document?
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Navigate to where your documents are stored.
Step 2: Use Content Search
In the search box, type:
content:keyword
Windows will show all documents containing that word or phrase.
Conclusion
Finding a file in Windows 10 doesn’t have to be stressful. With powerful search tools built right into the system, you can locate anything — from images to hidden files — in just a few clicks. Whether you use the search bar, File Explorer filters, or Command Prompt, these methods make staying organized a breeze.
Remember to keep your folders tidy and use meaningful file names to make future searches even easier!
FAQs
1. What if I forgot the exact name of my file?
Try searching by file type (like *.pdf) or by content using content:keyword.
2. How can I find hidden or system files?
Enable Hidden items under the View tab in File Explorer before searching.
3. Why is my search taking too long?
You might need to update or rebuild your search index under Indexing Options.
4. Can I search for files on external drives?
Yes! Just navigate to the external drive in File Explorer and use the search box.
5. Is there a way to search files by size?
Yes — use filters like size:>100MB to find large files quickly.