Previewing the contents of a file is easy as 1,2,3. (Express Photo)
Microsoft Windows is undoubtedly the most popular operating system on desktop and laptop devices. However, things might often get confusing if you are someone who has a lot of files stored on their PC and doesn’t remember the name of the file you are trying to find. This is where the built-in File Explorer’s Preview Pane feature comes in.
For the uninitiated, the Preview Pane lets users see the content of text files, images and sheets without actually opening the file, which can help save a lot of time if you are going through a folder with hundreds of files. Here’s how to use it.
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Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 can preview various files in File Explorer. (Express Photo)
How to use Windows File Explorer Preview Pane
The Preview Pane is by default hidden on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 and requires users to manually enable it. You can do so either by using the ‘Alt + P’ button combo or enabling it from the ‘View’ section in File Explorer.
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Once done, open the folder and single-click on the file you want to preview. Doing so will open a preview of the file without actually opening it. You can drag the separation bar on either side to make the preview pane bigger or smaller.
While the functionality may not work with all types such as .zip or, it works just fine with most documents, images and videos. To disable the preview pane, follow the same steps as above and you are good to go.
