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Copying a file makes a second copy in another location and leaves the original where it is. The basic sequence is the same across desktop systems: select the file, copy it, open the destination folder, and paste it. The shortcuts differ by operating system.
Copying a file: what it means
A copy is a duplicate saved at a destination. Unlike cut-and-paste, copying does not remove the original. Before you begin, identify the file you want and the folder where you want the duplicate to go.
Copy a file in Windows File Explorer
- In File Explorer, select the file.
- Press Ctrl+C.
- Open the destination folder.
- Press Ctrl+V.
You can also use the Copy and Paste commands in File Explorer or its context menu. Microsoft lists Ctrl-dragging a file as another way to create a copy when you drop it. See Microsoft’s Windows keyboard shortcuts.
Copy a file in macOS Finder
- In Finder, select the file.
- Press Command-C.
- Open the destination folder.
- Press Command-V.
You can also choose Copy from Finder’s Edit menu, or right-click or Control-click the file and choose Copy. Apple documents these Finder shortcuts and menu options in its Mac keyboard shortcuts guide.
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Copy a file from the Linux command line
Use cp followed by the source path and destination path:
cp SOURCE DESTFor example, this copies report.txt into the Documents folder:
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cp report.txt /home/alex/Documents/The Linux cp manual also covers copying multiple source files into a destination directory. Options and details can vary between implementations, so consult the manual available on your system for advanced cases: Linux man-pages: cp.
Copy and rename a file in Windows Command Prompt
At a Command Prompt, copy can copy a file and give the copy a different name. For example, in the current directory:
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copy memo.doc letter.docMicrosoft documents /v as an option to verify that new files are written correctly. The command’s behavior depends on its options and the files being copied; see Microsoft’s copy command reference.
Choose a method and avoid replacing the wrong file
| Method | Useful when | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|
| File manager copy and paste | You are copying a file you can locate visually. | Check the destination folder and any overwrite prompt. |
| Command line | You need to specify exact paths or repeat a copy operation. | Confirm the source and destination carefully; command options affect overwrite behavior. |
If the destination already has a file with the same name, the system or command may ask whether to replace it, or behavior may depend on the command options. Choose another name or destination if you want to keep both files. In Windows Command Prompt, /y suppresses overwrite confirmation and /-y requests it; do not suppress confirmation unless replacement is intentional.
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