How to Empty Recent Files in Windows 10
Are you looking to clear your recent files list in Windows 10 to maintain privacy or simply because it’s cluttered? Whether you’re a professional or a casual user, clearing recent files can be a straightforward process. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps on how to empty recent files in Windows 10.
Step 1: Access the Recent Files List
First, you need to access the recent files list. There are a couple of ways to do this:
1. Click on the Start button, and you’ll see a list of recently opened files on the left-hand side of the Start menu.
2. Press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog box, type `%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent` and press Enter. This will open the Recent Files folder directly.
Step 2: Delete Recent Files
Once you have accessed the Recent Files folder, you can delete the files as follows:
1. Click on a file you want to delete and press `Delete` on your keyboard.
2. If you want to delete all files at once, select all files by pressing `Ctrl + A`, then press `Delete`.
Step 3: Clear Recent Files from Start Menu
If you want to clear the recent files list from the Start menu, follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the Start button and select “Settings.”
2. In the Settings window, click on “Personalization.”
3. Go to the “Start” section.
4. Under “Show recently added apps and programs in Start,” turn off the toggle switch.
Step 4: Clear Recent Files from File Explorer
To clear the recent files list from File Explorer, do the following:
1. Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon on the taskbar or pressing `Win + E`.
2. Click on the “View” tab at the top of the window.
3. In the “Layout” group, click on “Options.”
4. Select “Change folder and search options.”
5. Go to the “View” tab.
6. Check the box for “Show recently used files in Quick Access.”
7. Click “OK” to save the changes.
Step 5: Use a Third-Party Tool
If you prefer using a third-party tool to clear recent files in Windows 10, you can download software like CCleaner. These tools often offer more advanced features and can help you clean up recent files and other system clutter more efficiently.
In conclusion, emptying recent files in Windows 10 is a simple process that can be done manually or with the help of third-party tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily maintain a clean and clutter-free system.
