Copying, moving, and deleting files in Intro to Computing - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

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What does it mean to copy a file?

Copying a file means making an exact duplicate of the file in a new location, while the original file stays where it is.

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What happens when you move a file?

Moving a file means transferring it from one place to another. The file is removed from the original location and placed in the new one.

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What does deleting a file do?

Deleting a file removes it from the storage. It usually goes to a recycle bin or trash first, where it can be restored before permanent removal.

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Why is it important to be careful when deleting files?

Because once a file is permanently deleted, it can be very hard or impossible to get it back. Always check before deleting important files.

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How is copying a file like making a photocopy of a paper document?

Just like a photocopy creates a duplicate paper without changing the original, copying a file creates a duplicate file without changing the original file.

What happens to the original file when you copy it?

A It stays in the original place unchanged

B It is deleted

C It moves to the new location

D It becomes empty

Copying creates a duplicate but leaves the original file where it is.

When you move a file, what happens?

A The file is renamed

B The file is deleted

C The file is copied and the original stays

D The file is transferred to a new location and removed from the old one

Moving transfers the file and removes it from the original place.

Where does a file usually go first when you delete it?

A To the desktop

B To the recycle bin or trash

C To the documents folder

D It disappears immediately

Deleted files often go to a recycle bin or trash where they can be restored before permanent deletion.

Which action should you take if you want to keep the original file but have a copy elsewhere?

A Move the file

B Delete the file

C Copy the file

D Rename the file

Copying keeps the original and creates a duplicate in a new location.

Why might moving a file be faster than copying it?

A Because moving just changes the file's location pointer without duplicating data

B Because moving deletes the file

C Because moving compresses the file

D Because moving renames the file

Moving often just updates the file's location info, especially on the same drive, so it is faster than copying.

Explain in your own words the difference between copying and moving a file.

Think about what happens to the original file in each case.

Describe what happens when you delete a file and why you should be careful.

Consider the safety net before permanent deletion.