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So what are file extensions? They are the suffix at the end of a filename that defines what type of file it is.There are thousands of different file extensions but there are some commonly used ones that we will go over.
File extensions are used to define files such as text files, image files, document files, audio files, video files, and more. Below are some examples of common file extensions and the type of files that they are used with.
A common text file ends with the extension .txt and is usually used when saving a file created in Notepad. On the other hand an image file will generally end with the extension .jpg or .jpeg (pronounced Jay-Peg). This type of extension is used when saving an image or photograph. Audio files are often saved in a .wma format and a common extension for a video file is .mp4.
Another commonly used file extension is .doc or .doxc and is used when saving a document file such as a file created in Microsoft Word. A lot of employers will ask you to send a resume in .doc format so they can easily view it with Microsoft Word.
As seen above, different file extensions are opened and viewed with different programs. A file extension can be changed manually but keep in mind that you must have the program on your computer to view it. For example, if you change the name from .doc to .txt and then save it, the file will no longer be able to be opened by Microsoft Word. It will now use Notepad to open the file. Below is a list of common extension types and their compatible programs.
These are by no means the only types of extensions and programs available but are some of the most commonly used ones.
To view your files extension type, hover your cursor over the file then right-click on it. A menu will pop up with several options. Click the properties link and a window will come up with all the information about that particular file. The extension type will be displayed at the top next to "Type of file".