How to clear Google Drive

Google Drive, without a doubt, is a very convenient cloud service for storing various files. But we all usually use Google Drive as a “warehouse“, throwing all file types into a shared folder. Of course, thanks to this approach, sooner or later, the cloudy disk space will turn into a “trash can” in which it will not be easy to find something. Every workplace must be properly organized, even if it is virtual. This is what we will do today.

Customize file display

You can browse files and folders in Google Drive in many different ways. For example, you can display everything as a list or grid, and set line spacing so that you can work with files as conveniently as possible. You can also easily browse folders and subfolders and reserve the center of the screen for the contents of the “special” folder that you select as the main one.

Creating subfolders

Subfolders are very convenient. They help to sort and classify files into smaller and specific groups. You can also use different colors for the desired folders. Right-click any folder in the sidebar or main window and select “Change Color“. Then select the desired color. You can choose any color scheme that suits you.

Create favorite folders and files

Google Drive allows you to add stars to display files and folders. You can do this and change the color: right click on the file or folder and select the appropriate “Add to favorites” item.

Use “Available for me”

On the left in the Google Drive management menu, you can find the Shared with me item. By clicking on it, you’ll see all the files you have access to. From here, you can edit any file as you like.

• By right clicking, you can place the file in your favorites as in the previous paragraph.
• In addition, you can (also by right-clicking the file) save it to Google drive / move to the desired folder, thus reducing the number of unsorted files.
• You can make a copy of the file. After right-clicking the file, select “Create Copy“. Notably, if you create a copy of a file with shared access, only you will have access to the new file.
• From the same menu, you can select “Open access” and share the file with a wide range of users.

Look through the basket

As with a computer, when you delete a file, it goes into the trash and stays there until you empty the trash. The longer you allow garbage to collect, the less free space you have, so more often empty your garbage in Google Drive.