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Windows 7

Use Checkboxes to Select Items in Explorer

SUMMARY: 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.

Selecting multiple files in a Windows 7 Explorer window via checking boxes

1. Click the Start button, type folder options and click the "Folder Options" link that appears.

Accessing Folder Options from the Windows 7 Start button

2. When the "Folder Options" multi-tabbed dialog box appears, click the "View" tab.

3. Scroll down and check "Use check boxes to select items".

4. Click "OK" to close the dialog box.

This tip was written for Windows 7 RC. Screenshots and information are subject to change between this and the official release of Windows 7.