Microsoft Excel is a powerful tool for managing data, creating charts, and conducting analyses. However, sometimes we encounter problems with our Excel files such as accidentally deleting them, saving them incorrectly, or losing them due to technical glitches. In this article, we will explore how to recover deleted or unsaved Excel files and how to undo unwanted changes.
Recovering Deleted Excel Files
Accidentally deleting an important Excel file can be frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, there are several methods of recovering deleted Excel files.
Method 1: Check the Recycle Bin
The first and easiest method of recovering deleted Excel files is to check the Recycle Bin. If the file was recently deleted, it may still be in the Recycle Bin. Follow these steps to check the Recycle Bin:
- Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
- Look for your deleted Excel file. If you see it, right-click it and select “Restore” to restore the file to its original location.
If you do not see your deleted Excel file in the Recycle Bin, try the next method.
Method 2: Use the File History Tool
The File History tool is a built-in backup tool in Windows that can help you recover deleted Excel files. Follow these steps to use the File History tool:
- Press the “Windows” key and type “File History”.
- Select “Restore your files with File History”.
- Search for your deleted Excel file by typing its name in the search bar or by using the arrows to browse through the different versions of your files.
- Select the file you want to restore and click the “Restore” button.
If you do not have File History enabled on your computer, or if the tool does not help you recover your deleted Excel file, try the next method.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party Data Recovery Tool
If your Excel file is still missing, you may need to use a third-party data recovery tool. These tools scan your computer’s hard drive for deleted files and try to recover them. Some popular data recovery tools include:
- Recuva
- Stellar Data Recovery
- EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
Keep in mind that these tools may not always be able to recover your deleted Excel file and may come with a fee.
Recovering Unsaved or Corrupted Excel Files
Unsaved or corrupted Excel files can also be frustrating to deal with. However, there are ways to recover them.
Method 1: Use the AutoRecover Tool
Excel has a built-in AutoRecover tool that automatically saves your work at regular intervals. If Excel crashes or if you accidentally close the program without saving your work, the AutoRecover tool may be able to recover your unsaved Excel file. Follow these steps to use the AutoRecover tool:
- Open a new Excel workbook.
- Click the “File” tab.
- Select “Open”.
- Find the folder where AutoRecover files are saved. The default location is usually in the “AppData” folder.
- Select the AutoRecover file with the latest date and time stamp and click the “Open” button.
If the AutoRecover tool does not work, try the next method.
Method 2: Use the Document Recovery Task Pane
If you have saved your Excel file at least once before it became corrupted, you may be able to use the Document Recovery task pane to recover your file. Follow these steps to use the Document Recovery task pane:
- Open a new Excel workbook.
- Click the “File” tab.
- Select “Open”.
- Click the “Recent Workbooks” link on the left-hand side of the window.
- Scroll down to the “Recover Unsaved Workbooks” section and select the “Show Recovered Files” button.
- Select your unsaved Excel file and click “Open”.
If neither of these methods work, you may need to use a third-party Excel repair tool to recover your corrupted Excel file.
Undoing Unwanted Changes
Have you ever made an unwanted change to an Excel file and thought, “There’s no going back from this”? Fear not, there are ways to undo unwanted changes.
Method 1: Use the Undo Button
The simplest way to undo unwanted changes is to use the Undo button, which is represented by the back arrow in the top-left corner of the Excel window. You can undo multiple actions by clicking the Undo button multiple times.
Method 2: Use the Ctrl+Z Shortcut
In addition to the Undo button, you can also use the Ctrl+Z shortcut to undo your last action. This shortcut can be used repeatedly to undo multiple actions.
Method 3: Use the Redo Button
If you accidentally undo too much, you can use the Redo button, which is represented by the forward arrow in the top-left corner of the Excel window, to redo your undo actions.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if I can’t find my deleted Excel file in the Recycle Bin?
A: Try using the File History tool or a third-party data recovery tool.
Q: Can I recover an Excel file if I didn’t save it?
A: Yes, you may be able to recover an unsaved Excel file using the AutoRecover tool or the Document Recovery task pane.
Conclusion
Excel is an indispensable tool for many people, and losing data can be a major setback. However, there are ways to recover deleted or unsaved Excel files and undo unwanted changes. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can be better prepared to deal with unexpected Excel problems.
