How to Clean Up Recent Files in Windows 10
In the fast-paced digital age, it’s easy for your Windows 10 computer to accumulate a large number of recent files, making it harder to find the documents or applications you need. Cleaning up these recent files can help improve your computer’s performance and make your system more organized. This article will guide you through the steps to efficiently clean up recent files in Windows 10.
Step 1: Access the Recent Files List
To begin cleaning up recent files, you first need to access the list. There are two ways to do this:
1. Press the “Windows” key + “X” and select “File Explorer” from the menu.
2. Click on the “Start” button and type “File Explorer” in the search bar.
Once File Explorer is open, click on “Quick Access” on the left-hand side.
Step 2: View and Clear Recent Files
In the Quick Access section, you will see a list of recent files and folders. To clear this list, follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the “Recent Files” folder.
2. Select “Properties” from the context menu.
3. In the Properties window, go to the “General” tab.
4. Under the “Privacy” section, click on “Clear” next to “Clear a recent file list.”
5. Click “OK” to confirm the action.
Step 3: Clear Recent Files in File Explorer
If you want to clear recent files from File Explorer specifically, follow these steps:
1. In File Explorer, click on the “View” tab at the top of the window.
2. In the “Layout” group, click on “Options.”
3. In the Folder Options window, go to the “View” tab.
4. Scroll down and check the box next to “Clear file list on exit.”
5. Click “OK” to save the changes.
Step 4: Clear Recent Files in Start Menu
The Start menu also stores recent files and applications. To clear these, follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the “Start” button and select “Task Manager.”
2. In Task Manager, go to the “Startup” tab.
3. Click on “Open File Explorer” to open the Start menu.
4. Once File Explorer is open, go to the “Quick Access” section on the left-hand side.
5. Right-click on the “Recent Files” folder and select “Properties.”
6. In the Properties window, go to the “General” tab.
7. Under the “Privacy” section, click on “Clear” next to “Clear a recent file list.”
8. Click “OK” to confirm the action.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean up recent files in Windows 10, improving your computer’s performance and organization. Remember to regularly perform this task to maintain a clutter-free and efficient system.
