Copying the file path in Windows 10 is straightforward. Simply find the file, right-click on it, and select “Copy as path” from the context menu. This action copies the path to your clipboard. You can then paste this path wherever you need it.
Step-by-step Tutorial for Copying File Path in Windows 10
Let’s walk through the steps to copy a file path in Windows 10. This method ensures you have the exact location of a file or folder to share or use.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
First, you need to open File Explorer.
You can do this by clicking on the folder icon on your taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to the File or Folder
Look for the file or folder whose path you want to copy.
Use the left sidebar to navigate through your drives and folders until you find the specific file or folder.
Step 3: Right-click the File or Folder
Once you locate the file or folder, right-click on it.
A context menu will appear with various options.
Step 4: Select “Copy as path”
From the context menu, click on “Copy as path.”
This action will copy the full file path to your clipboard.
Step 5: Paste the Path
Now, go to the location where you want to paste the path. Use Ctrl + V to paste it.
This pastes the exact path, making it easy to share or use for other tasks.
After completing these steps, the file path will be on your clipboard, ready to be pasted into any document, email, or program.
Tips for Copying File Path in Windows 10
- Ensure you’re right-clicking directly on the file or folder and not an empty space.
- If “Copy as path” is not visible, make sure you’re using Windows 10 or later.
- Use the copied path to quickly access files through Command Prompt or file dialogs.
- Remember, the path includes the drive letter, folder hierarchy, and file name.
- This method also works for shortcuts and network locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if “Copy as path” isn’t shown in the context menu?
Try holding down the Shift key while right-clicking. This should reveal the option.
Can I copy paths for multiple files at once?
Yes, you can select multiple files, right-click, and choose “Copy as path” to copy all their paths at once.
Is there a keyboard shortcut for “Copy as path”?
No direct shortcut exists, but you can use Shift + Right-click to reveal it in the context menu.
Does “Copy as path” work for folders?
Absolutely! You can copy the path of any folder using the same method.
Can I use the copied path in Command Prompt?
Yes, you can paste the copied path directly into Command Prompt for various operations.
Summary of Steps
- Open File Explorer
- Navigate to the file or folder
- Right-click the file or folder
- Select “Copy as path”
- Paste the path
Conclusion
Copying a file path in Windows 10 is a handy trick that can save time and effort, especially when dealing with complex directory structures. With just a few clicks, you can have the exact path ready to paste into any application, email, or script. This simplicity makes it accessible even for beginners, while the utility it provides is valuable for more advanced users.
Whether you’re troubleshooting, sharing file locations, or scripting, knowing how to copy a file path can streamline your workflow. If you found this guide useful, consider exploring other features in Windows 10 that can enhance your productivity. Keep experimenting and learning; the more you know, the more efficient you’ll become!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.