How to Turn on Preview in File Explorer
In today’s digital age, managing files and folders has become an integral part of our daily lives. Windows File Explorer is a versatile tool that allows users to navigate, organize, and access their files efficiently. One of the most useful features of File Explorer is the preview pane, which lets you view the contents of files without opening them. If you’re wondering how to turn on this feature, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
To begin, open the File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon in the taskbar, or pressing the Windows key + E on your keyboard.
Step 2: Customize the View
Once File Explorer is open, click on the “View” tab at the top of the window. This tab contains various options for customizing the appearance and functionality of File Explorer.
Step 3: Toggle the Preview Pane
In the “View” tab, you will find a section called “Layout.” Look for the “Preview pane” option and click on it. If it’s unchecked, the preview pane will be enabled, and you will see a preview of the selected file on the right side of the window. If it’s checked, the preview pane will be disabled, and you won’t see any previews.
Step 4: Resize the Preview Pane
You can adjust the size of the preview pane by clicking and dragging the separator between the preview pane and the main file list. This allows you to control how much space is allocated to the preview pane and the file list.
Step 5: Customize the Preview Pane
If you want to customize the preview pane further, right-click on any file in the preview pane and select “Choose details to display.” This will open a dialog box where you can select which file properties and metadata to display in the preview pane.
Step 6: Enable Thumbnail Previews
If you prefer thumbnail previews over text-based previews, you can enable this option by going to the “View” tab, clicking on “Options,” and then selecting “Change folder and search options.” In the “View” tab of the Folder Options dialog box, check the “Show thumbnails instead of icons” option and click “Apply” and “OK.”
By following these steps, you can easily turn on the preview feature in File Explorer and make your file management experience more efficient and enjoyable. Enjoy the convenience of previewing files without opening them, and take your file organization to the next level!
