Where can I find recently deleted Excel files? This is a common question among users who have accidentally deleted important data from their Excel spreadsheets. Losing critical information can be frustrating, but there are ways to recover deleted Excel files. In this article, we will explore various methods to find recently deleted Excel files and restore them to their original state.
Excel, being a widely used spreadsheet application, has a built-in feature to recover deleted files. However, the success of recovery largely depends on the actions taken immediately after the deletion. Let’s dive into the different methods to find recently deleted Excel files.
1. Use the Recycle Bin
The first place to check for recently deleted Excel files is the Recycle Bin. When you delete a file from your computer, it is moved to the Recycle Bin instead of being permanently deleted. To recover a deleted Excel file from the Recycle Bin, follow these steps:
a. Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking on its icon on the desktop.
b. Locate the deleted Excel file in the Recycle Bin.
c. Right-click on the file and select “Restore.”
d. The file will be restored to its original location.
2. Check the Recently Deleted Items
If you are using Windows 10 or later, you can check the “Recently Deleted” folder on OneDrive. This folder stores deleted files from your OneDrive account for a certain period (usually 30 days). To recover a deleted Excel file from the “Recently Deleted” folder, follow these steps:
a. Open OneDrive on your computer or visit the OneDrive website.
b. Click on the “Recently Deleted” folder.
c. Locate the deleted Excel file.
d. Right-click on the file and select “Restore.”
3. Utilize the “Previous Versions” Feature
Windows operating systems have a “Previous Versions” feature that allows you to restore files to their previous states. This feature is particularly useful if you have previously enabled System Restore. To recover a deleted Excel file using “Previous Versions,” follow these steps:
a. Right-click on the folder where the Excel file was stored.
b. Select “Restore previous versions” from the context menu.
c. A list of available previous versions will be displayed.
d. Select the desired version and click “Restore.”
4. Use File Recovery Software
If the above methods do not work, you can turn to file recovery software. These programs can scan your computer’s hard drive and recover deleted files, including Excel files. Some popular file recovery software options include:
a. Recuva
b. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
c. Stellar Data Recovery
To recover a deleted Excel file using file recovery software, follow these steps:
a. Download and install the chosen file recovery software.
b. Run the software and select the location where the Excel file was stored.
c. Start the scanning process.
d. Once the scan is complete, locate the deleted Excel file and select it.
e. Click “Restore” to recover the file to a new location.
In conclusion, finding recently deleted Excel files is possible with the right methods and tools. By using the Recycle Bin, OneDrive’s “Recently Deleted” folder, the “Previous Versions” feature, or file recovery software, you can recover your lost data and get back to work efficiently.
