Check Recycle Bin First:

Deleted files go to Recycle Bin initially. Open it, find your file, right-click and select Restore. The file returns to its original location.

Use File History:

If enabled, File History saves file versions. Right-click folder > Properties > Previous Versions. Select a date before deletion.

Windows Backup:

Control Panel > Backup and Restore. Select "Restore my files" to recover from backups. Only works if backup was previously configured.

Windows File Recovery Tool:

Microsoft's free command-line tool. Install from Microsoft Store. Run winfr commands to recover from formatted or corrupted drives.

Third-Party Recovery Software:

Recuva, EaseUS, and Disk Drill scan for recoverable files. Work best when used immediately after deletion. Stop using the drive to prevent overwriting.

Prevent Future Loss:

Enable File History for automatic backups. Use OneDrive or other cloud backup. Backup is always better than recovery.

Conclusion:

Quick action improves recovery chances. Stop using the drive immediately. Professional data recovery services exist for critical situations.