how to recover deleted word documents windows 10
Accidentally deleting a Word document can be a nightmare, but don’t worry! You can often recover deleted Word documents on Windows 10 by checking the Recycle Bin, using the File History feature, or trying third-party recovery software. This guide will walk you through these steps so you can retrieve your important files.
How to Recover Deleted Word Documents on Windows 10
Recovering deleted Word documents on Windows 10 can be easier than you think. Follow these steps to get your lost documents back.
Step 1: Check the Recycle Bin
Step 1: Open the Recycle Bin to look for your deleted Word document.
The Recycle Bin is the first place to check because most deleted files go there first. Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop. Look for your Word document, right-click on it, and select Restore. This will return the file to its original location.
Step 2: Use the File History Feature
Step 2: Access File History to retrieve a previous version of your document.
File History is a backup feature in Windows 10. Open the Control Panel, go to System and Security, and click on File History. Select Restore personal files. Browse through the backups and find your Word document. Click the green Restore button to get it back.
Step 3: Search for Temporary Files
Step 3: Search for temporary Word files on your computer.
Word sometimes saves temporary versions of documents. Go to File Explorer and type “*.tmp” in the search bar. Look for files with names similar to your lost document. Rename the file extension from .tmp to .docx and try opening it in Word.
Step 4: Use Third-Party Recovery Software
Step 4: Download and run a reliable third-party file recovery program.
If the above methods don’t work, third-party software might help. Programs like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can scan your hard drive for deleted files. Download the program, follow the instructions to run a scan, and see if your Word document appears in the results.
What Happens After Recovery
After following these steps, your deleted Word document should be restored. If you used the Recycle Bin or File History, the document will return to its original location. If you used temporary files or recovery software, you might need to save it to a new location.
Tips for Recovering Deleted Word Documents on Windows 10
- Regular Backups: Always keep regular backups of important documents to avoid future data loss.
- Check AutoSave: Enable AutoSave in Word to ensure your documents are saved periodically.
- Use Cloud Storage: Save your files in cloud storage like OneDrive or Google Drive for easy access and backup.
- Avoid Overwriting: After deleting a file, avoid saving new files to the same location to prevent overwriting.
- Use Reliable Software: Only use trusted recovery software to avoid malware and further data loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enable File History on Windows 10?
Go to Control Panel > System and Security > File History and click on Turn on.
Can I recover a document after emptying the Recycle Bin?
Yes, but you will likely need third-party recovery software to retrieve it.
What is the difference between File History and System Restore?
File History backs up personal files, while System Restore reverts your system to a previous state without affecting personal documents.
Can AutoRecover help if I didn’t save my Word document?
Yes, AutoRecover can save unsaved changes, but only if Word was set up to use this feature.
Is it safe to use third-party recovery software?
Yes, but make sure to download from reputable sources to avoid malware.
Summary
- Check the Recycle Bin.
- Use the File History feature.
- Search for temporary files.
- Use third-party recovery software.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to recover deleted Word documents on Windows 10 can save you a lot of stress and time. Always start with the easiest options like the Recycle Bin and File History before moving on to more complex solutions like third-party software. Regular backups and enabling features like AutoSave can also help prevent data loss. If you need more detailed guides, don’t hesitate to look up further resources or tutorials online. Taking these steps can make a big difference when that important document goes missing. Happy recovering!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.