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goldensealsS1973's avatar
goldensealsS1973
Copper Contributor
Sep 17, 2025

MissingWordFiles?

For several days now, I have been writing a new file on Word, saved it, then it is nowhere to be seen in my Documents list. What could explain

this?   Thanks

1 Reply

  • These are possible reasons:

     

    1. Saved to a Different Location
      - Word might be saving to a default folder like OneDrive, Downloads, or a custom folder you used recently.
      - Try opening Word, go to File > Open > Recent Documents—this can reveal the file path.
      2. AutoSave to OneDrive
      - If AutoSave is on, Word may have saved the file to your OneDrive cloud folder, not your local Documents folder.
      - Check your OneDrive folder or sign in at onedrive.live.com to see if it’s there.
      3. Unsaved or Temporary Files
      - If Word crashed or closed unexpectedly, it may have saved a temporary version.
      - Open Word and check File > Info > Manage Document > Recover Unsaved Documents.
      4. File Name or Extension Issue
      - You may have saved the file with an unusual name or extension, making it harder to spot.
      - Try searching your PC using part of the filename or even just .docx.
      5. Multiple User Profiles
      - If you’re using multiple Windows accounts or profiles, the file might be saved under a different user’s Documents folder.

    Please try:
    - Open Word and check Recent Documents.
    - Use Windows Search (press Windows key and type part of the filename).
    - Check OneDrive and Downloads folders.
    - Try recovering unsaved documents from Word’s Manage Document section.

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