Before we dive into the recovery methods, it is essential to understand that the chances of successfully recovering a deleted Excel file depend on certain factors. The most crucial factor is time. The sooner you attempt to recover the file, the higher the chances of success. So, without wasting any time, let’s get started!
1. Check the Recycle Bin: The first place to look for a deleted Excel file is the Recycle Bin or Trash on your computer. Excel that are deleted from their original location are usually sent to the Recycle Bin. Open the Recycle Bin and search for the deleted file by its name or extension (e.g., .xlsx).
2. Use the File Recovery Feature of Excel: Microsoft Excel has a built-in feature called AutoRecover/AutoSave, which automatically saves a temporary version of your file at regular intervals. Launch Excel and navigate to the File tab, then click on Open. Look for the “Recent” or “Recover Unsaved Workbooks” option, and select the desired file from the list.
3. Utilize Data Recovery Software: If the above methods fail, you can turn to third-party data recovery software. Numerous software options are available online, such as EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Recuva, or Disk Drill. Choose a reliable and compatible software with positive user reviews. Install and run the software, follow its instructions, and perform a deep scan to locate and recover the deleted Excel file.
4. Check for Previous Versions: Windows operating systems have a feature that automatically creates shadow copies or previous versions of files. Right-click on the folder or drive where the Excel file was stored, and select “Properties.” In the “Previous Versions” tab, you may find a list of previous versions of the folder or file. Select an appropriate version and click on “Restore” to recover the content.
5. Search for Temporary Files: Excel creates temporary copies of files as backup while you are working on them. These temporary files are usually saved with a .tmp extension. Open File Explorer and navigate to the temporary files folder (usually located in C:\Users\[your username]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Office\UnsavedFiles). Search for any .tmp files that match the date and time of when the file was last saved or edited. Rename the file with a .xlsx extension and open it in Excel to recover the content.
Remember to save the recovered Excel file to a different location to avoid overwriting any potential recovery options. It is also essential to regularly backup your important files to avoid such situations in the future.
In conclusion, accidentally deleting an Excel file can be a distressing experience, but with the right approach, you can recover its content. Start by checking the Recycle Bin and using Excel’s built-in recovery features. If those methods fail, resort to data recovery software or explore previous versions of the file. Additionally, searching for temporary files may also prove fruitful. By following these steps and staying calm, you stand a good chance of recovering your mistakenly deleted Excel file and avoiding significant data loss.