How to Enable Check Boxes for Items in Windows 7

Posted by Elizabeth Goodman in Quick Tips Friday, January 15, 2010

This week, we are still diverting from the typical computer troubleshooting and IT support tips and having a computer help tip. I thought I would try a tip for all of the Windows 7 users. Did you know there is an easier way to select multiple files without having to use the Ctrl or Shift keys by enabling the check boxes feature?

Im sure you are familiar with selecting multiple files in Explorer by holding down the Shift or Ctrl key while selecting items with your mouse. Holding down the Ctrl key allows you to select multiple single items. Holding down the Shift key lets you select a series of multiple files or folders.

To enable check boxes click on Start and type Folder Options into the search box and hit Enter. In the Folder Options window, click on the View tab, and scroll down under Advanced Settings and check the box next to Use check boxes to select items, then click Apply and OK.

Now you should notice a small check box shows up next to the item you want to select. With this enabled you dont need to hold any key on the keyboard, just click to place a checkmark in the box. Notice there is a box under the menu bar that will select all items. And it also works for folders. And on the desktop you can check icons, folders and files that you want to move to another location.

The check box feature is also available in Vista following the same procedureenabling them in Folder Options.

This is a neat setting that lets you select multiple items using the mouse without worrying about holding down the correct key on the keyboard. It will work with any view in Explorer, but seems to work best with Detailed View.

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How to Enable Check Boxes for Items in Windows 7

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