How to Clear Recent in Windows 11
In the digital age, we rely heavily on our computers to manage our daily tasks and activities. One of the features that many users find helpful is the “Recent” section, which displays a list of recently opened files, apps, and folders. However, over time, this list can become cluttered and overwhelming. If you’re looking to clear recent items in Windows 11, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out.
Step 1: Access the Start Menu
The first step to clearing recent items in Windows 11 is to access the Start Menu. You can do this by clicking on the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of your screen or pressing the Windows key on your keyboard.
Step 2: Open the File Explorer
Once you have the Start Menu open, search for “File Explorer” and click on the icon to open it. Alternatively, you can press `Windows key + E` to open File Explorer directly.
Step 3: Navigate to the Recent Items Folder
In the File Explorer, you’ll see a sidebar on the left-hand side. Look for the “Quick Access” section and click on “Recent.” This will display a list of your recently opened files, apps, and folders.
Step 4: Clear Recent Items
To clear the recent items list, right-click on any item in the list and select “Clear Recent” from the dropdown menu. A confirmation dialog will appear, asking you to confirm your decision. Click “Yes” to proceed.
Step 5: Confirm Deletion
After confirming the deletion, the recent items list will be cleared, and you’ll be prompted to restart File Explorer to complete the process. Click “Restart Now” to proceed.
Step 6: Access the Taskbar
If you want to clear recent items from the Taskbar, right-click on the Taskbar and select “Taskbar settings.” In the “Taskbar” section, scroll down and click on “Clear” under “Clear recently opened items in File Explorer.”
Step 7: Restart Your Computer
To ensure that the changes take effect, restart your computer. Once your computer boots up, the recent items list will be cleared, and you’ll have a fresh start.
In conclusion, clearing recent items in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can help you maintain a clutter-free and organized computing experience. By following these simple steps, you can easily manage your recent items and keep your computer running smoothly.
