How to recover a recently deleted Excel file can be a daunting task, especially when you realize that the file you spent hours working on is no longer there. However, there are several methods you can try to restore your deleted Excel file and get back to your work as quickly as possible.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that when you delete a file, it is not immediately removed from your computer. Instead, the space occupied by the file is marked as available for new data. This means that if you act quickly, you can often recover the deleted file before it gets overwritten by new data.
Here are some steps you can follow to recover a recently deleted Excel file:
1. Check the Recycle Bin: The first place to look for a deleted Excel file is the Recycle Bin. If you have deleted the file from your computer, it should be in the Recycle Bin. Simply open the Recycle Bin, locate the Excel file, right-click on it, and select “Restore” to recover it to its original location.
2. Use the “Undo Delete” feature: If you have enabled the “Undo Delete” feature in Excel, you can easily recover a recently deleted file. When you delete a file, Excel will prompt you with an “Undo Delete” option. Simply click on “Undo Delete” to restore the file.
3. Use the “File History” feature: If you have enabled the “File History” feature on your Windows computer, you can recover a deleted Excel file from a previous version. To do this, open the File History folder, navigate to the location where the Excel file was stored, and select the version you want to restore.
4. Use a file recovery tool: If the above methods do not work, you can try using a file recovery tool. There are many free and paid file recovery tools available online that can help you recover deleted files. Some popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.
5. Check for a backup: If you have a backup of your Excel files, you can simply restore the deleted file from the backup. This is why it’s important to regularly back up your files to prevent data loss.
When using a file recovery tool, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully to avoid overwriting the deleted file. Additionally, be aware that the success rate of file recovery may vary depending on the situation and the tool used.
In conclusion, recovering a recently deleted Excel file is possible with the right approach. By checking the Recycle Bin, using the “Undo Delete” feature, utilizing the “File History” feature, employing a file recovery tool, or checking for a backup, you can often restore your deleted file and continue your work without any interruptions.
