Double-click to open

Two clicks, one opening action

To double-click, keep the pointer over an item and press and release the left mouse button twice quickly. Try to keep the mouse still between the clicks.

With the usual File Explorer setting, one click selects a file or folder and a double-click opens it. A folder opens to show what is inside. A file opens in an app that can display it.

You can try again

If the folder only becomes highlighted, Windows may have treated your clicks as separate single clicks. Pause, keep the pointer still and try two quicker clicks. Selecting the folder once and pressing Enter is another way to open it.

See selection become opening

Follow the instruction popup on the practice desktop. Carry out each action yourself. The guide moves to the next step when you complete the action. On the last step, click Check the result. Afterwards, Try it gives you a fresh desktop to practise independently. Click Check my work when you finish, or use the optional hints underneath.

Double-click Holiday plans: click its name twice quickly with the left mouse button. The folder opens and the view changes to show its contents.

Open Holiday plans

You are going to open Holiday plans with a double-click. This fresh practice desktop stays inside the webpage. Try the task independently, using the optional hints underneath if you need help.

Point at Holiday plans. Press and release the left mouse button twice quickly without moving the pointer away. Look for the folder’s contents to appear. If it only becomes selected, pause and try again. You can also click it once, then click Open selected folder below the desktop or press Enter on your keyboard.

Check the idea

Two slow left clicks left the folder selected but closed. What is a useful next try?

Keep the pointer still and make two quicker left clicks.

Try this outside the practice desktop

You have practised inside this webpage. If you feel ready, you can repeat the skill in Windows on the same computer, outside the practice desktop. This is optional. The steps below use your actual apps and files, so use only disposable practice items. Files made in the webpage do not appear in Windows File Explorer.

Use double-clicking for items that need opening, and single-clicking for buttons and menu choices.