Practice Undo and learn when to pause
Practice Undo and learn when a deleted file may be restored, and when a change needs more care.
It helps to know a few recovery steps before you need them. Some actions can be undone; others may lose work or change something outside your device.
Key points
- Check the Recycle Bin or Trash; a file still there can usually be restored
- Try Ctrl+Z or Cmd+Z for an edit while Undo is available
- Save before closing, keep backups, and pause before actions that delete or send
- Not every loss comes with a warning, and recovery is not guaranteed
What to remember
- These are examples, not a complete list. Check what an action changes and whether you have a way back.
- If you only ever remember one key combination, make it this one.
- The Recycle Bin can help while the file is still there. It is not a substitute for a backup.
Try this
If you want to try this on your own computer, open the Recycle Bin or Trash and look at what is there. Do not empty it. If you see a file you want, look for Restore or Put Back.
Practice: Practice Undo and learn when to pause. Your first lesson is free, with no account or card; the rest are part of a Lantern plan. Interactive lessons require JavaScript.