How Do You Easily Locate Scanned Files in Windows 10? Avoid This Painful Mistake!

Why Can’t I Find My Scanned Documents in Windows 10? Discover the Simple Fix!

Sometimes, finding a scanned paper can feel tricky. You scanned something and now… it’s missing! Don’t feel bad—it happens a lot. Here is a super easy way to find your scanned documents and pictures on a Windows 10 computer, using happy steps.

Two Ways to Scan in Windows 10

Windows 10 gives you two main tools to scan:

1. Windows Fax and Scan (the classic way)
2. The Scan app (the newer way)

Each one saves files in its own spot.

If You Used Windows Fax and Scan

Scanned papers and photos go to a folder called “Scanned Documents.” This folder is inside the “Documents” folder.

Steps:

1. Press the Windows + E at the same time. This opens File Explorer.
2. On the left, find and click “Documents.”
3. Double-click the folder named “Scanned Documents.”
4. Look inside. Your scans should be here.

Tip: Click the “Date” column to sort files by when you scanned them. New stuff will be easier to spot.

If You Used the Scan App

Scanned files go in a folder named “Scans.” This folder is inside the “Pictures” folder.

Steps:

1. Press the Windows + E together. File Explorer pops up.
2. Click on “Pictures” on the left.
3. Find and double-click the folder called “Scans.”
4. Check what’s inside. You should see your scanned files.

Note: The Scan app can save your scans as pictures (JPG, PNG) or PDF. So, check if your scans look like photos or documents.

What If You Still Can’t Find Your Scans?

You might have saved your scans somewhere else by accident.

The folder names can be “Scanned Documents,” “Scans,” “My Scans,” or just “Documents.”

If you changed where these folders go, check your settings. Right-click the “Documents” folder, choose “Properties,” then look at the “Location” tab for clues.

Fast Search Trick

1. Press the Windows + E.
2. Click the search bar at the top right.
3. Type “scanned” or any word you remember from your file name.
4. Press “Enter.” See if your scan pops up.

Try to remember when you scanned the document, or what word was in its name.

Extra Tips

• Check your cloud folders like OneDrive or Google Drive if you use them.
• Some printers have special apps (like HP Smart) that use their own folders—open the printer software and see where your scans went.
• If you need to change where scans will save next time, look for “Save location” in your app’s settings. Move the folder if you want.

You’re not alone if you felt lost. Finding scanned files just takes a few happy steps. Soon, your important papers will always be easy to find!