Weekly Computer Tip # 98
22 January 2005

Setting a new default file location (Microsoft Office)

When you save a file using Microsoft Office your computer will automatically store it in your "My Documents" folder, the so-called "working folder". Similarly, when you open a file it will search in that "My Documents" folder by default. When I do one-to-one training sessions, using people's own files, addressing their "real-life" software problems on their own PC, I often see them "drilling down" (or up) to a different folder over and over again. Nothing wrong with that. However,

Did you know ...

Microsoft Office provides a way to reset the "working folder" so you can select your preferred location, which will - in the long run - save you many hours of your time. (Not to mention the savings in energy that result from the frustration of navigating to the same folder you tend to use the whole time.)

Here's how: (in MS Word)

1. Choose the Tools, Options command.
2. On the File Locations panel of the Options dialog box, which is subsequently displayed, make sure that the Documents option is selected. Then click on the Modify button.
3. In the Modify Location dialog box, which is subsequently displayed, navigate to your preferred folder.
4. Click on the OK button.

Here's how: (in MS Excel and Access)

1. Choose the Tools, Options command.
2. On the General panel of the Options dialog box, specify your preferred folder.
3. Click on the OK button.

Here's how: (in MS PowerPoint)

1. Choose the Tools, Options command.
2. On the Save panel of the Options dialog box, specify your preferred folder.
3. Click on the OK button.

Now, when you open or save a document, it should automatically open up the folder you specified, rather than the one set up by Microsoft. After all, one size doesn't fit all!

While we're on the subject ... what if you're not getting the most out of traditional workshops and classes because you learn in a different way? If the very thought of spending a day in front of a computer in a classroom puts you off, you will benefit from the hands off approach. Perhaps you don't want to spend time entering data, correcting mistakes and feel as if you are slowing everyone else down? Or perhaps you are happy to experiment on your own and don't want to wait for slower delegates to catch up? Check out more details about the next hands off seminar at http://www.roem.co.uk/events.html (Remember, your 10% weekly tip subscriber discount offer ends 15 February.)

Until next week.

PS I’m committed to sharing the best of what I know with others so please don’t keep me a secret. If you enjoyed today’s tip, please forward it to anyone you feel may benefit. Alternatively, feel free to reprint it (with full copyright and subscription information) in your newsletters and message boards.

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