Deleting a file removes it from the location where it is stored. If the storage location is your hard diskthe file is moved to the Recycle Bin. If the storage location is a diskCDor network locationthe file is destroyed.
You cannot delete a file while someone has it open in any program. The file must be closedand if it is a shared fileit must be checked in.
Note: For more information about deleting and restoring files and folderssee the Microsoft Windows Help and Support Centerwhich you can access by clicking Help and Support on the Start menu. For information about the Recycle Binyou can see Viewrestoreor delete items in the Recycle Bin.
The best way to delete your files is to use the Windows File Explorer.
Delete a file by using File Explorer
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Open a File Explorer window.
Tip: A quick way to get to File Explorer is to press Windows Key
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Locate the file that you want to delete.
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Select the file and press your Delete keyor click Delete on the Home tab of the ribbon.
Tip: You can also select more than one file to be deleted at the same time. Press and hold the CTRL key as you select multiple files to delete. To select a long list of files click the first file in the listpress and hold SHIFT, then click the last file in the list.
For more information see: Delete a file by using File Explorer
Remove a file from your recently used list in an Office program
If you want to keep the filebut simply remove it from your recently used files listfollow these steps:
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Click File > Open.
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Locate the file that you want to delete.
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Right-click the fileand then click Remove from list.
For more information on customizing the recently used files list see: Customize the list of recently used files.
Related Topics
Delete a page in Word Delete files or folders in OneDrive Office document cache settings
