Folder vs File
📄 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.
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📍 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
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🧩 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
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📁 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.
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🔁 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 |