Windows 7 Tips

Use Checkboxes to Select Items in Explorer

Add the ability to select multiple files in Windows 7 Explorer windows by checking and unchecking boxes.

Normally in Windows 7 if you want to manipulate several files simultaneously (delete them, get properties, rename them, move them, etc.) there are several ways to do so. You can hold the Ctrl key while selecting items, select the first item in a list then hold the Shift key while selecting the last item, create a selection rectangle with the mouse to select items, etc.

However, with this following tweak you can select files by checking boxes next to them. You may find this easier than using the keyboard shortcuts or creating a selection rectangle.

1. Click the Start button, type folder options and click the "Folder Options" link that appears.
2. When the "Folder Options" multi-tabbed dialog box appears, click the "View" tab.