How to Find a File's Path on Windows

This updated guide examines How to Find a File's Path on Windows and organizes the essential facts, background, and practical takeaways in clear American English.

Method 1of 3:

Using Search

1. Press?Win+S. This opens the search bar.
2. Type the name of the file. A list of matching results will appear.
3. Right-click the name of the file. A brief pop-up will appear.
4. ClickOpen file location. This opens the file in its containing folder.
5. Click at the end of the box that contains the file name. It's just above the list of files inside the folder, and just below the icons. This highlights the full path to the file.
   • To copy the path, pressCtrl+C.
   • To paste the path once it has been copied, pressCtrl+V.

Method 2of 3:

Using the File Explorer

1. Press?Win+E. This opens the Windows File Explorer.
   • The Windows key is usually near the bottom-left corner of the keyboard.
2. Navigate to the folder that contains the file. The steps to do this vary depending on where the file is located. You'll typically have to double-click the drive name or letter, and then double-click a folder to open its contents.
3. Right-click the file. A menu will appear.
4. ClickProperties. It's at the bottom of the menu.
5. Find the path next to 'Location. ' It's near the center of the window.
   • To copy the path, double-click it to highlight it with the mouse, then pressCtrl+C.
   • To paste the path once it has been copied, pressCtrl+V.

Method 3of 3:

Using the Run Command Window

1. Navigate to the folder that contains the file. For example, if the file is on your desktop, go to the desktop.
2. Press?Win+R. This opens the Run command window.
3. Drag the file to the Run command window. You can lift your mouse once the file's icon is somewhere on the Run window.
4. Find the full path in the 'Open' box. This displays the file's full location.
   • To copy the path, double-click it to highlight it with the mouse, then pressCtrl+C.
   • To paste the path once it has been copied, pressCtrl+V.