How do I copy and paste a file in Windows?

Copying and pasting files in Windows is a fast and easy way to transfer data from one place to another. The process is the same for any version of Windows, although the visuals may vary.

Start by opening two windows in Windows Explorer, one containing the file you want to copy, and the other containing the folder where you want to paste your copied file. This might be a new location on the same computer, an external hard drive, or a shared network drive.

Next, select the file you want to copy. This can be done by clicking the file’s name once and then either pressing the “Ctrl” and “C” keys or right-clicking the file and selecting “Copy” from the shortcut menu. If you select multiple files at once, they will all be copied together.

Now switch over to the second window, select the folder you want to paste the file into, and click the “Ctrl” and “V” keys, or right-click and choose “Paste” from the shortcut menu. Depending on the folder and the size of the file, you may get a prompt asking if you want to overwrite any existing files with the same name. Choose “Yes” or “No” accordingly.

Alternatively, you can also drag and drop the file to the other folder. To do this, click the file and keep your mouse button pressed down while you drag the file over to the other window. Then simply drop it wherever you’d like.

The final step is to open the folder you just pasted the file into, and check that your file is there. If everything went smoothly, the copying and pasting was successful, and you have now transferred the file to your desired location.