Finding PDF Files on Windows 10 is a piece of cake once you know where to look. Essentially, you’ll be using the built-in search functionality in File Explorer to locate those elusive PDFs. It’s a quick process that involves opening File Explorer, typing "*.pdf" into the search bar, and waiting for the results to populate. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make you a PDF-finding pro!
How to Find PDF Files on Windows 10
Here’s how you can quickly and easily find all your PDF files on Windows 10. Follow these steps to locate any PDF file on your computer.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Open File Explorer from your taskbar or by pressing the Windows key + E.
File Explorer is your main hub for accessing files on your computer. It’s the yellow folder icon you see on your taskbar. If you can’t find it, simply press the Windows key + E, and it will pop up.
Step 2: Navigate to This PC
Click on "This PC" in the left-hand sidebar.
This PC shows all the drives and folders on your computer. By selecting it, you’re telling Windows to search your entire computer for the files you need.
Step 3: Use the Search Bar
Type "*.pdf" into the search bar in the top-right corner.
The search bar is your direct line to finding specific files. By typing "*.pdf," you’re instructing Windows to search for all files with a PDF extension.
Step 4: Wait for Results
Wait for the search to complete.
Depending on the number of files and the speed of your computer, this could take a few seconds to a few minutes. Be patient as Windows compiles a list of all the PDFs on your system.
Step 5: Browse the Results
Look through the list of search results to find your desired PDF files.
Once the search completes, you’ll see a list of all the PDFs on your computer. You can now browse through the results and open any file directly from this list.
After you complete these steps, you will have a comprehensive list of all PDF files currently stored on your Windows 10 computer. You can open, move, or delete these files as needed.
Tips for Finding PDF Files on Windows 10
- Use Specific Keywords: If you remember part of the file name, add it to the search query to narrow down the results.
- Sort by Date: Use the sort function to organize files by the date they were modified, making it easier to find recent PDFs.
- Check the Downloads Folder: PDFs often get downloaded to the Downloads folder by default, so make sure to check there.
- Enable File Extensions: Make sure file extensions are visible in File Explorer to easily identify PDFs.
- Use Cortana: If you prefer voice commands, you can ask Cortana to find PDF files on your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I find some PDF files on my Windows 10 computer?
Sometimes, files may be hidden or stored in locations you’re not searching. Make sure to enable hidden files in File Explorer settings.
How do I make sure all file extensions are visible?
Go to the "View" tab in File Explorer and check the box that says "File name extensions."
Can I search for PDFs using Cortana?
Yes, you can use Cortana by either typing your query or using voice commands to find PDF files.
What if the search is taking too long?
Try narrowing down your search by specific folders or using keywords to speed up the process.
How do I open a PDF file from the search results?
Double-click on the desired PDF file in the search results to open it in your default PDF reader.
Summary of Steps
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to "This PC."
- Type "*.pdf" into the search bar.
- Wait for the results to populate.
- Browse through the search results.
Conclusion
Finding PDF Files on Windows 10 is straightforward once you know how to use File Explorer effectively. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily locate any PDF file on your computer in no time. Remember, the key is using the correct search term, "*.pdf," and being patient as Windows compiles the results.
For those who frequently deal with PDFs, these tips and tricks can save you a lot of time and frustration. And if you run into any issues, don’t forget about the additional tips and FAQs we provided to assist you. Now that you’ve mastered this skill, why not check out other handy Windows 10 features? Happy file hunting!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.