In Windows 11, Microsoft has revamped the user interface, introducing changes that may affect how you perform basic tasks like cutting, copying, and pasting files or folders. While these essential functions remain integral to file management, their access methods have evolved. This guide provides detailed instructions on various ways to cut, copy, and paste files or folders in Windows 11, ensuring you can manage your files efficiently.

Cutting or copying a file or folder in Windows 11

There are several methods to cut or copy files and folders. Here are the most effective ones:

Using keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are the quickest way to cut or copy files or folders:

  1. Select the file or folder you want to cut or copy.
  2. Press Ctrl + X to cut or Ctrl + C to copy.

Using the cut or copy icons in the context menu

You can also use the context menu to cut or copy:

  1. Right-click on the desired file or folder.
  2. Select the appropriate icon at the top or bottom of the context menu. The 'Cut' icon looks like scissors, and the 'Copy' icon resembles two overlapping pages.

Using the cut or copy icons in File Explorer's command bar

The command bar in File Explorer provides quick access to common actions:

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the file or folder you wish to cut or copy.
  2. Select the item.
  3. Click on the 'Cut' or 'Copy' icon in the command bar at the top.

Using the legacy context menu

If you prefer the traditional context menu, you can still access it:

  1. Right-click on the file or folder.
  2. Select 'Show more options' at the bottom of the context menu.
  1. Alternatively, with the file or folder selected, press Shift + F10 to open the legacy context menu directly.
  2. In the legacy menu, click on 'Cut' or 'Copy' as needed.

Pasting a file or folder in Windows 11

After cutting or copying, you can paste the item to your desired location using the following methods:

Using keyboard shortcuts

To paste using keyboard shortcuts:

  1. Navigate to the destination folder.
  2. Press Ctrl + V to paste the file or folder.

Using the paste icon in the context menu

You can paste through the context menu as well:

  1. Right-click on an empty space within the destination folder.
  2. Click on the 'Paste' icon in the context menu, which looks like a clipboard with a sheet of paper.

Using the paste icon in File Explorer's command bar

The command bar also allows you to paste items:

  1. Navigate to the folder where you want to paste the file or folder.
  2. Click on the 'Paste' icon in the command bar at the top.

Using the legacy context menu

To paste using the legacy context menu:

  1. Right-click on an empty space in the destination folder.
  2. Select 'Show more options' to open the legacy context menu.
  1. Alternatively, press Shift + F10 to access the legacy menu directly.
  2. Click on 'Paste' to insert the cut or copied item.

By familiarizing yourself with these methods, you can efficiently cut, copy, and paste files or folders in Windows 11, ensuring smooth file management despite the interface changes.