How to view file content in Windows 10 and Windows 11 without opening them

Microsoft Windows is undoubtedly the most popular operating system on desktop and laptop devices. However, things might often get confusing if you are someone who has a lot of files stored on their PC and doesn’t remember the name of the file you are trying to find. This is where the built-in File Explorer’s Preview Pane feature comes in.

For the uninitiated, the Preview Pane lets users see the content of text files, images and sheets without actually opening the file, which can help save a lot of time if you are going through a folder with hundreds of files. Here’s how to use it.