I saved my homework titled 'Journal.docx' five days ago in the folder 'C:UsersMalacDocumentsSchoolFall 2025Fictional_Writing' and now I can't find it! When I try to open it from the recent files in Word, I get an error message saying 'the directory name isn't valid'. I noticed that the 'Fictional_Writing' folder is missing, and when I created a new folder with a slightly different name, I still can't access my original file.
I've tried recovering unsaved documents, system restore (which had no points), and searching my entire C drive, but nothing seems to work. I'm in a tough spot because this was creative writing based on verbal prompts and I don't have any notes other than in that document. Any ideas on how I can retrieve my lost homework?
2 Answers
Definitely try checking OneDrive! Sometimes it can save files there without you realizing it. If it turns out that it's lost in OneDrive, just know it can be a hassle; I get it, it feels like it's supposed to make things easier but often it doesn’t.
It sounds like your file might be stored in OneDrive instead of your local drive. Check the OneDrive online to see if you can find it there. Also, make sure OneDrive is running on your computer; that can sometimes cause issues with access.
Thanks for the tip! I found it in my OneDrive – frustrating that it was so subtle. It makes me wonder why they label it 'sync' when it doesn’t seem synced at all!