Deleting files on Google Drive is a simple process that can be done in a few clicks. Whether you’re looking to free up space, organize your files, or simply get rid of something you no longer need, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Delete on Google Drive
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to know that deleting a file from Google Drive will send it to the trash, where it will stay for 30 days before being permanently deleted. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open Google Drive
Open Google Drive in your web browser or through the app on your mobile device.
When you open Google Drive, you’ll see all your files and folders displayed. Make sure you’re signed into the correct Google account that contains the files you want to delete.
Step 2: Locate the File
Find the file or folder you wish to delete by scrolling through your Drive or using the search bar.
Keep in mind that if you’re looking to delete a specific item within a folder, you’ll need to open that folder to access the file.
Step 3: Select the File
Click or tap on the file or folder to select it. You can select multiple files by holding down the Ctrl key (Cmd on Mac) while clicking.
A blue highlight or checkmark will appear on the selected items, indicating they are ready for deletion.
Step 4: Click on the Trash Icon
With the file(s) selected, click on the trash can icon located in the toolbar at the top of the screen.
If you’re using the Google Drive app, you may need to tap on the three dots (menu) icon to find the ‘Remove’ or ‘Move to trash’ option.
Step 5: Confirm Deletion
If prompted, confirm that you want to delete the selected file(s) by clicking ‘Move to trash’ or ‘OK.’
Remember that once a file is in the trash, you still have 30 days to recover it if you change your mind.
After completing these steps, the selected files will be moved to the trash. If you’re certain you won’t need the files again, you can empty the trash to permanently delete them. Otherwise, they’ll be automatically deleted after 30 days.
Tips on How to Delete on Google Drive
- Always double-check that you’re deleting the correct files, as recovery is limited to 30 days.
- To delete files more quickly, use the keyboard shortcut ‘Shift + Z’ after selecting the files.
- Deleted files still count against your Google Drive storage quota until they’re permanently removed from the trash.
- Consider creating a backup of important files before deleting them, just in case.
- If you’re using a shared drive, be aware that deleting files may affect other users with access to those files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I accidentally delete a file?
If you accidentally delete a file, you can recover it from the trash within 30 days of deletion. Simply go to the trash, select the file, and choose ‘Restore.’
Can I delete files permanently without waiting 30 days?
Yes, you can permanently delete files immediately by going to the trash, selecting the files, and clicking ‘Delete forever.’
How do I delete shared files from Google Drive?
To delete a file you’ve shared with others, the process is the same as deleting any other file. However, keep in mind that deleting a shared file will remove access for everyone you’ve shared it with.
Is there a way to delete files in bulk?
You can delete multiple files at once by selecting all the files you want to delete (using Ctrl or Cmd) and then following the usual deletion steps.
Can I recover a file after it’s been permanently deleted?
Once a file is permanently deleted from the trash, it cannot be recovered. Make sure you have a backup if you think you might need the file in the future.
Summary
- Open Google Drive.
- Locate the file.
- Select the file.
- Click on the trash icon.
- Confirm deletion.
Conclusion
Google Drive is a fantastic tool for storing and organizing files, but it can get cluttered if you don’t regularly manage and delete unnecessary items. Following the steps outlined in this article will help you keep your drive clean and ensure that you only keep the files that are important to you. Whether it’s unwanted documents, outdated projects, or redundant backups, knowing how to delete on Google Drive is a skill that will help you maintain a more efficient and organized digital space. Just remember to double-check before you hit that delete button, as you don’t want to lose anything important. Happy cleaning!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.