File Extensions Explained: Decoding File Types
File extensions, added as a suffix to file names with a period, reveal the file's format, organizing its data. These extensions, usually three or four characters long, vary widely, each linked to a unique file format. Common examples include:
- .docx: Microsoft Word document
- .pdf: Portable Document Format
- .jpg: JPEG image
- .mp3: MPEG audio file
- .zip: ZIP archive file
Opening Files by Extension: Your computer selects the appropriate application based on the file's extension. For instance, a .docx file opens with Microsoft Word. This site offers a detailed guide on various file extensions, their meanings, associated applications, and instructions for changing extensions and converting file formats.