This wikiHow teaches you how to find the full trace to a file using Windows Search, File Explorer, or the Run command window.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using Search
Step 1. Press Win+S
This step will open a search bar.
Step 2. Type in the file name
A list of matching results will appear.
Step 3. Right-click the file name
A short popup will appear.
Step 4. Click Open file location
This will open the file in the folder that contains it.
Step 5. Click on the end of the box containing the file name
It's right above the list of files in the folder, below the icon. This step will highlight the complete path to the file.
- To copy the trail, press Ctrl+C.
- To paste the trace after copying, press Ctrl+V.
Method 2 of 3: Using File Explorer
Step 1. Press Win+E
This step will open Windows File Explorer.
The Windows Key is usually located near the bottom-right corner of the keyboard
Step 2. Navigate to the folder containing the file
The way to do this varies, depending on where the file is located. Usually you need to double-click the name or letter of the disc (drive), then double-click the folder to open its contents.
Step 3. Right-click the file
A menu will appear.
Step 4. Click Properties
It's at the bottom of the menu.
Step 5. Locate the file trace next to “Location
It's in the middle of the window.
- To copy the full trace, double-click to highlight it with the mouse, then press Ctrl+C.
- To paste the trace after copying, press Ctrl+V.
Method 3 of 3: Using the Run Command Window
Step 1. Navigate to the folder containing the file
For example, if the file is on the desktop, open the desktop.
Step 2. Press Win+R
This will open a Run command window.
Step 3. Drag the file to the Run command window
You can lift the mouse once the file icon is somewhere in the Run window.
Step 4. Look for the full trace in the “Open” box
This will display the full location of the file.
- To copy a trail, double-click to highlight it with the mouse, then press Ctrl+C.
- To paste the trace after copying, press Ctrl+V.
