Windows XP: finding lost files (not deleted ones)

Today's tip will help you to enjoy the quick and easy way to find lost files on your computer. Try to search for a file with its file extension (for example for a word file, type *.doc (or *.docx for MS Word 2007), Excel *.xls, Acrobat *.pdf, *.ppt and *.exe for executable files. If you don't know the type of file but know that it contains a string of text then try to search for files containing specific text, type the text you want to find from any file or folder. This is time taking process but creates a very precise result. In Look in, click the drive, folder, or network you want to search. To save time, always select the specified drive or location instead of whole computer.

Click the Start Button and click Search. A Search Results dialog box will appear. In Search for files or folders, type the file name or folder name you want to find in containing text.

To specify additional search criteria, click Search Options, and then click one or more of the following options to narrow your search:



•Select Date to look for files that were created or modified on or between specific dates.

•Select Type to look for files of a specific type, such as a text or WordPad document.

•Select Size to look for files of a specific size.

•Select Advanced Options to specify additional search criteria.

Once you're done selecting all your search options, simply click Search.
 
Tip: You may want to download Windows Search to get more search capabilities -- plus faster searches! A couple features include Advanced Search Syntax and opening programs--right from your desktop.

If you choose to download Windows Search, (a wise decision indeed), you can go here to get some Advanced Search Syntax help.

Windows Search allows you to narrow your searches down incredibly so that you will find what you want. Also, you can write new commands to open certain programs. If you know how to write batch (.bat) programs, then you're all set with Windows Search.