Working with multiple folders at once in Windows 11 can significantly improve productivity. Whether you’re organizing files, moving documents, or comparing folder contents, opening several folders simultaneously saves time and effort. This guide walks you through multiple methods to open multiple folders in Windows 11 quickly and efficiently.
1. Open Multiple Folders Using File Explorer
The simplest way to open several folders is directly through File Explorer.
Steps:
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Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
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Navigate to the location where your folders are stored.
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Hold down Ctrl and click each folder you want to open.
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Right-click any selected folder → choose Open.
All selected folders will open in separate File Explorer windows.
2. Use Shift Key to Open a Range of Folders
If the folders are consecutive in a list:
Steps:
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Open File Explorer and go to the folder containing your items.
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Click the first folder in the list.
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Hold Shift and click the last folder in the range.
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Right-click any selected folder → Open.
This method opens all folders in the selected range at once.
3. Open Multiple Folders with a Keyboard Shortcut
Windows 11 supports keyboard shortcuts for efficiency.
Steps:
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Select the folders using Ctrl or Shift.
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Press Enter to open all selected folders simultaneously.
This avoids using the mouse for right-click options.
4. Create a Batch File to Open Multiple Folders
For folders you frequently need to access, creating a batch file can save time.
Steps:
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Right-click on the desktop → New > Text Document.
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Open the text file and enter the following commands for each folder:
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Save the file with a
.batextension, e.g.,OpenFolders.bat. -
Double-click the
.batfile to open all specified folders at once.
5. Pin Frequently Used Folders to Quick Access
If you regularly open the same set of folders:
Steps:
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Open File Explorer.
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Right-click a folder → Pin to Quick Access.
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Repeat for all frequently used folders.
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Open Quick Access and double-click multiple folders as needed.
6. Use PowerShell to Open Multiple Folders
Advanced users can open multiple folders using a single PowerShell command.
Steps:
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Press Windows + X → select Windows Terminal.
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Enter the following command:
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Press Enter, and all specified folders will open simultaneously.
7. Troubleshooting Tips
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Make sure folder paths are correct when using batch files or PowerShell.
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If folders fail to open, check permissions for the selected directories.
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Restart File Explorer if the system becomes slow when opening many folders.
Final Thoughts
Opening multiple folders in Windows 11 is easy once you know the right method. From simple Ctrl or Shift selections to batch files and PowerShell scripts, you can choose the technique that best fits your workflow.
By mastering these methods, managing files and folders becomes faster, smoother, and more organized.