How to Create a New Folder on Windows 11
Learn how to create a new folder on Windows 11 to organize your files and keep your desktop clean.
Introduction
Folders are used to organize files and keep your computer structured and easy to navigate. In this guide, you will learn how to create a new folder on Windows 11 and give it a custom name.
Right-Click on the Desktop
Navigate to your Windows desktop and right-click on an empty area. This will open the Windows context menu.
Make sure you click on an empty space and not on an existing file, folder, or shortcut.
Select New → Folder
In the context menu, select New and then choose Folder. Windows will immediately create a new folder on your desktop.
The folder will appear with its name highlighted so you can rename it right away.
Enter a Folder Name
Type a name for your new folder and press Enter on your keyboard. For example, you might name the folder Documents, Projects, Photos, or any other descriptive name.
Choose names that clearly describe the contents of the folder.
You have successfully created a new folder on your Windows 11 desktop.
Creating a Folder Inside Another Folder
You can also create folders inside existing folders using the same process.
Open an Existing Folder
Double-click any folder to open it in File Explorer.
You can create folders almost anywhere you have permission to save files.
Create a New Folder
Right-click inside the folder window, select New, and then choose Folder.
Alternatively, you can use the New button near the top of File Explorer.
Name the Folder
Type a name for the folder and press Enter. The new folder will now be created inside the current folder.
This allows you to create a hierarchy of folders to better organize your files.
Organize Related Files Together
Create separate folders for different projects, topics, or file types to make information easier to find later.
Windows does not allow certain characters in folder names, including \ / : * ? " < > |.
- ✓ Right-clicked on the desktop
- ✓ Selected New → Folder
- ✓ Entered a folder name
- ✓ Pressed Enter
- ✓ Opened a folder in File Explorer
- ✓ Created a folder inside another folder
You now know how to create folders on Windows 11 and use them to organize your files more effectively.