📄 What is a File?

A file is a sequence of information stored on a physical device (like a hard drive or USB key) in the form of binary data blocks.

  • 📍 File Path:
    The path to a file is the list of folders that must be opened to reach the file.
    Example: C:\Users\John\Documents\report.docx

  • 🧩 File Extension:
    The file extension indicates the type of file and determines which application is needed to open it.
    Examples:

    • .docx → Word document

    • .jpg → Image file

    • .mp3 → Audio file


📁 What is a Folder (or Directory)?

A folder is used to store and organize files, or even other folders.
Folders help create a logical structure to manage data, similar to how we use folders in a filing cabinet.

  • 🔁 Folders inside folders create a tree-like structure called a directory tree or hierarchy.

Example structure:

📁 Documents └── 📁 School  └── 📄 assignment.docx


📌 Summary Table

Element Description Example
File Data stored in binary form report.pdf, song.mp3
Folder Container that holds files or other folders Documents, Photos
Last modified: Friday, 25 April 2025, 11:11 AM