Understanding File Explorer Date Stamps: Created, Access, and Modified Times

When working with files in Windows, it's important to understand the different date stamps associated with each file and folder. Specifically, File Explorer displays three key pieces of information: when a file was created, when it was last accessed, and when it was last modified. This article will explain what each of these date stamps means and how to customize their display in File Explorer.

What are Date Stamps in File Explorer?

Date stamps in File Explorer refer to the different timestamps associated with each file and folder. These timestamps include:

Date Created: The date and time the file or folder was initially created. Date Last Accessed: The date and time the file or folder was last opened or accessed. Date Last Modified: The date and time the file or folder was last modified.

By default, File Explorer displays the date last modified. However, you can choose to display any or all of these date stamps depending on your needs. This guide will show you how to customize the display of these date stamps to suit your workflow.

How to Adjust Date Stamp Display in File Explorer

Customizing the date stamp display in File Explorer is straightforward. Follow these steps to change how the date stamps are shown:

Open File Explorer by pressing the Windows key and typing 'explorer' or navigate to your desired folder. Right-click on any header row (e.g., File name, Size, Type, etc.). Select 'Properties' from the context menu. In the 'Properties' window, click on the 'Details' tab. Here, you can choose which columns to display on the header row, including the date stamps. Check the boxes next to the date stamps you wish to display and click 'OK'. The selected columns will now appear on the header row.

When to Use Each Date Stamp

Each date stamp serves a different purpose and can be useful in different scenarios:

Date Created: This timestamp is useful for tracking when a file or folder was originally created. It can be helpful for auditing or for understanding the document or project history. Date Last Accessed: This information can be useful for determining how often a file or folder is used. It can also help with identifying files that might be unused or need to be backed up. Date Last Modified: This timestamp is the most commonly used and provides the most up-to-date information on when changes were made to a file or folder. It's particularly useful for tracking recent updates and for version control.

Best Practices for Managing Date Stamps in File Explorer

Here are some best practices to consider when managing date stamps in File Explorer:

Regularly refresh the display: To ensure you always see the most accurate information, regularly change the display settings to refresh the view. Use File Explorer filters: You can use filters to sort or filter files based on any of these date stamps. This can help you quickly find files that are newly created, modified, or have been accessed recently. Document changes: When working on a project, document any changes made to files and folders, especially when they are modified. This can help you keep track of your progress and revert to previous versions if needed.

Conclusion

Understanding and managing the date stamps in File Explorer is a valuable skill for anyone who works with files on a regular basis. Whether you're a professional or a home user, these timestamps can provide important information that helps you manage your files more effectively. By customizing how these date stamps are displayed, you can tailor your workflow to your specific needs and ensure that you have the information you need at your fingertips.

FAQs

Q: Can I change the order of the date stamps in File Explorer?

A: Yes, you can change the order of the date stamps in File Explorer. In the 'Details' tab of the 'Properties' window, you can drag and drop the columns to the desired order.

Q: Are date stamps accurate in File Explorer?

A: Generally, date stamps are accurate and reliable. However, certain operations like moving files between filesystems, copying files, or using file recovery tools can alter these dates.

Q: How do I quickly sort files by date modified in File Explorer?

A: To sort files by the date they were last modified, simply right-click on any header row, select 'Sort by', and then choose 'Date modified'. This will quickly sort the files in your current directory or folder by modification date.