FILE & FOLDER CLASSICS #01

Can't remember where you saved a client file? Don't start opening folders one by one.

1. Search inside a folder

Open the folder → click the search box → type your keyword.

Windows can search file names and, where supported, file contents.

2. Search the entire computer

Open File Explorer → This PC and search.

Try:
*.xlsx → find Excel files
AIS → find files with AIS in the name
26AS → find 26AS files

Especially useful during ITR season when you know *what* you're looking for but not *where* you saved it.

FILE & FOLDER CLASSICS #02

Good file names save time months later.

1. Rename immediately after downloading

Don't leave:
Document.pdf
Download (1).pdf

Rename it to something meaningful, e.g.:
ABCIndustries_AIS_AY2026-27.pdf

2. Rename multiple files together

Select the files → Right-click → Rename → enter the common name.

Windows numbers them automatically.

3. Use a consistent version format

For working files, use something like:

ClientName_Working_2026-07-11_v01

Avoid:
Final_v2_Last_Final.xlsx

If you can identify a file six months later without opening it, you've named it properly.

FILE & FOLDER CLASSICS #03

Three simple habits that make client folders much easier to manage.

1. Pin important folders to Quick Access

Right-click the folder → Pin to Quick Access.

Your frequently used folders are then always visible in File Explorer.

2. Use File Explorer tabs

In Windows 11, press Ctrl + T in File Explorer.

Keep client documents, Downloads, working papers and archives in separate tabs instead of opening multiple Explorer windows.

3. Treat Downloads as a transit area

Download → use → rename → move to the proper client folder.

Don't let Downloads become a permanent filing cabinet.

A clean folder structure makes finding the right file much easier — and reduces the chance of using the wrong one.

FILE & FOLDER CLASSICS #04

Before editing an important client file, protect the original.

1. Create a working copy

Select the file → Ctrl + C → Ctrl + V

Work on the copy.

Keep the original untouched.

2. Need an older version later?

If the file is stored in OneDrive, use:

Right-click → Version History

You can restore or compare an earlier version without rebuilding the file.

3. Don't rely on memory

For important workings, use clear version names such as:
Client_Working_v01
Client_Working_v02

One untouched original can save hours of reconstruction later.

FILE & FOLDER CLASSICS #05

Three small File Explorer tricks worth remembering.

1. Ctrl + Drag → Copy

Drag a file while holding Ctrl to create a copy.

Shift + Drag → Move
Alt + Drag → Create shortcut

2. Copy a full file path

Select the file → Shift + Right-click → Copy as path

Useful when sharing an exact file location with a colleague or documenting where a file is stored.

3. Preview before opening

In File Explorer, press Alt + P.

The Preview Pane lets you inspect supported files without opening each one.

Less opening, closing and clicking.