Comp25: Reveal File Type Extensions

File Type Extensions

Files on your computer always have an extension that specifies what type of file it is.  For example, a file ending in "DOC" is a Microsoft Word Document.  A file ending in "XLS" is a Microsoft Excel Workbook.

By default, Windows hides these extensions because most people don't need to see them.  Open Windows Explorer and navigate to your documents folder.  You'll see that the files shown will not have an extension. 

Changing Settings

In order to properly create and edit HTML files on the Windows operating system, you must be able to view the file type extensions of the files on your computer.  Follow these steps to tell Windows you wish to see the file extensions:

1. Open Windows Explorer
2. From the Tools menu, choose Folder Options
3. Click the View tab
4. Uncheck "Hide Extensions for Known File Types"
5. Hit OK

You should now see extensions displayed for every file on your computer.