The exact answer to the question is F2.
When working with files and folders in Windows File Explorer, the quickest way to initiate the renaming process for a selected item is by pressing the F2 key on your keyboard.
Renaming Files and Folders Using Shortcuts
Renaming items in File Explorer is a common task, and while you can always use the right-click context menu or the ribbon bar, the keyboard shortcut provides significant efficiency.
Here's how to use the F2 shortcut:
- Open File Explorer: Navigate to the folder containing the file or folder you wish to rename. You can open File Explorer by clicking its icon on the taskbar or by pressing the Windows Key + E.
- Select the Item: Click on the file or folder you want to rename to select it.
- Press F2: With the item selected, press the F2 key. The name of the file or folder will become editable, usually highlighted or with a blinking cursor.
- Type the New Name: Enter the desired new name for the file or folder.
- Confirm: Press Enter to save the new name.
Reference Confirmation
According to Microsoft Support, the process to rename a file involves selecting it and then choosing "Rename" on the ribbon or pressing F2 on your keyboard. This confirms that F2 is the designated keyboard shortcut for renaming.
"...Find the file you want to rename, select it and select Rename on the ribbon (or press F2 on your keyboard). Type the new name you want the file to have and press Enter."
— Rename a file - Microsoft Support
Alternative Methods for Renaming
While F2 is the shortcut, other methods are available in File Explorer:
- Using the Ribbon: Select the file or folder, then click the "Rename" button located in the "Home" tab of the File Explorer ribbon.
- Using the Context Menu: Right-click on the file or folder you want to rename, then select "Rename" from the context menu that appears.
- Clicking the Name: A slightly less intuitive method is to select the file/folder with a single click, wait a moment, and then click directly on the name again. This often makes the name editable, similar to pressing F2, but requires careful timing.
| Method | Description | Speed/Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| F2 Key | Select item, press F2. | Fastest |
| Ribbon | Select item, click "Rename" on ribbon. | Moderate |
| Context Menu | Right-click item, select "Rename". | Moderate |
| Double Click | Select item, click name again (with pause). | Slow/Less Reliable |
The F2 shortcut is widely regarded as the most efficient way to rename items in File Explorer, allowing for quick edits without moving your hands from the keyboard to the mouse after selecting the item.
