Have you ever lost track of a file you just knowis on your computer?

Don’t worry—it happens to everyone. The good news: both Windows and Mac have powerful search tools built in, and once you know the basics, you can find almost anything quickly.

🔎 Finding Files on Windows

1. Use the Search Bar in File Explorer 

• Open File Explorer (yellow folder icon).
• Click in the search box at the top right.
• Type part of the file name or a keyword.
• Results appear instantly.

2. Search From the Taskbar 

• Click the Start menu or press the Windows key.
• Start typing the file name right away.
• Windows will suggest files, apps, and even web results.

3. Narrow Your Search 

• In File Explorer, you can filter results by date, type, or size.
• Example: Search “report” → then click Documents to only see document results.

🍎 Finding Files on a Mac

1. Use Spotlight Search 

• Press Command (⌘) + Spacebar.
• Start typing the file name.
• Spotlight shows documents, apps, and even emails that match.
• Press Return to open the file.

2. Search in Finder 

• Open a Finder window (the smiling face icon).
• Type a keyword in the search bar (top right).
• Use filters like Kind (Document, Image, Music) or Date.

3. Check Recent Files 

• In Finder’s sidebar, click Recents.
• This view automatically shows the files you’ve worked with most recently.

🚀 Quick Tips (Works on Both)

• Try searching for file extensions (like .pdf or .jpg).
• Keep your Downloads and Documents folders organized—most files live there.
• If you often misplace files, create a “To Sort” folder and move things there before organizing them later.

👉 Still can’t find it? PCRescue subscribers don’t have to worry—we can remotely check your system and help locate missing files or apps in minutes.