How to Copy File and Folder Names in Windows 11 (Easy Methods)

Managing files efficiently often requires more than just navigating through folders. Whether you’re preparing documentation, organizing data, or setting up batch processing, quickly compiling a list of file and folder names in Windows 11 can save valuable time. Fortunately, Microsoft provides several built-in methods—ranging from simple File Explorer tricks to Command Prompt, PowerShell, and even Registry tweaks—that make this process seamless.

In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to copy file and folder names in Windows 11 using different approaches, so you can choose the one that best fits your workflow.

Method 1: Copy File and Folder Names with File Explorer

For most users, File Explorer provides the fastest way to grab file names:

Steps:

1- Open File Explorer and navigate to the desired folder.

2- Select the files or folders (use Ctrl + A to select all).

3- Hold Shift and right-click one of the items to reveal extra menu options.

4- Choose Copy as Path.

5- Paste the results into Notepad, Excel, or any editor using Ctrl + V.

🔹 Note: This method copies full file paths. If you only need names, use Find and Replace or tools like Notepad++ to strip the path details.

Method 2: Copy File and Folder Names with Command Prompt

If you prefer the command line, Command Prompt offers a quick and powerful solution:

Steps:

1- Open the target folder in File Explorer.

2- Click the address bar, type cmd, and press Enter.

3- Use one of the following commands:

• Copy file and folder names (no paths): dir /b | clip

• Copy names including subfolders: dir /b /s | clip

• Copy only file names (exclude folders): dir /b /a-d | clip

Paste the copied list into your text editor. With a bit of Find and Replace, you can further clean up the results.

Method 3: Copy File and Folder Names with PowerShell

For more flexibility, PowerShell is the ideal tool.

Steps:

1- Open the folder, then Shift + Right-click and select Open PowerShell window here.

2- Run one of these commands:

• Copy file and folder names only: Get-ChildItem -Name | clip

• Copy names recursively (include subfolders): Get-ChildItem -Recurse -Name | clip

PowerShell also allows filtering by file type or exporting directly to CSV for advanced reporting.

Method 4: Add a “Copy File List to Clipboard” Option in the Context Menu

If you frequently need file lists, you can add a permanent option to the Windows 11 right-click menu. This requires a registry edit.

⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Always back it up before making changes.

Steps:

1- Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

2- Navigate to: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shell

3- Right-click shell → New > Key → name it copylist.

4- Set its default value to Copy File List to Clipboard.

5- Inside copylist, create a new key named command.

6- Set its default value to: cmd /c dir "%1" /a:-d /o:n | clip

7- Close the Registry Editor.

Now, right-click any folder, choose Show more options, and select Copy File List to Clipboard.

Method 5: Copy a Single File or Folder Name

For one-off tasks, you can quickly copy just one name without paths:

Steps:

1- Select the file or folder in File Explorer.

2- Press F2 to rename (the name is highlighted).

3- Press Ctrl + C to copy.

4- Hit Enter to exit rename mode.

5- If you need the full name including the extension, press Ctrl + A before copying.

Conclusion

Copying file and folder names in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be tedious. Whether you prefer the simplicity of File Explorer, the efficiency of Command Prompt, the flexibility of PowerShell, or the convenience of a custom context menu, there’s a method for everyone.

By mastering these techniques, you’ll streamline documentation, improve file management, and save time on repetitive tasks.