Introduction

y the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

• Use the Recycle Bin

Using the Recycle Bin

Sometimes files and folders can clutter your computer. The Recycle Bin, the desktop icon that resembles a wastebasket, is where you put a file or folder if you want to get rid of it.

To move an item to the Recycle Bin in Windows Explorer or My Computer:

• Click the file or folder you want to get rid of.
• The file or folder darkens.
• Choose FileDelete.

OR

• Drag the file or folder to the Recycle Bin.
  • In Windows Explorer, drag it to the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop or to Recycle Bin folder in the left pane.
  • In My Computer, make sure the window is not maximized so you can drag the file or folder onto the desktop.
• A dialog box appears asking Are sure you want to send the file or folder to the Recycle Bin?
• Click Yes.

OR

• Right-click the file or folder you want to delete.
• When the pop-up menu appears, choose Delete.
• A dialog box appears asking Are sure you want to send the file or folder to the Recycle Bin?
• Click Yes.

Retrieving an item from the Recycle Bin

You can easily retrieve a file or folder that has not been permanently deleted from the computer. Double-click on the Recycle Bin, and drag the file or folder onto the desktop.

Emptying the Recycle Bin

Your files and folders stay around for a while in the Recycle Bin unless you delete them permanently from your computer. You can empty the entire bin or empty one or more files.

To permanently delete ALL files or folder from the Recycle Bin:

• Click on the Recycle Bin
• Choose FileEmpty Recycle Bin.

To permanently delete one or a few files or folder from the Recycle Bin:

• Hold down the Ctrl key, then click each file you want to delete.
• Choose FileDelete.

Challenge!

• Open the shortcut for Shopping List.
• Delete the shortcut by dragging it to the Recycle Bin.
• Open the Recycle Bin, and permanently delete the Shopping List shortcut.
• The original Shopping List remains on your computer.