MightyGrep

Some files can prove to be especially difficult to find, and while File Explorer will get you by in most cases, its functionality pales in comparison to third-party tools. As such, for a more efficient file finding process, consider using a dedicated third-party software.

MightyGrep is a program that grants users the ability to more easily search through their directories and find what they’re looking for. Besides allowing one to fine-tune their searches in detail, the app also integrates a utility to search for text within certain files.

Though the program’s overall look may initially lead you to believe it addresses a more advanced audience, it is surprisingly easy to pick up even by a less experienced user. What you see on the interface is what you get, and it is this quick access to its functions that makes the program easy to maneuver.

You can start by specifying a directory, then seeing what the results show you. You can opt to narrow your search down to a specific extension, use date ranges, set minimum and maximum size thresholds, and more. Regex support further expands searching capabilities, but there’s a bit of a learning curve to using those expressions effectively for newer users.

If you’re after a text file or document, then you should know that you can use the Contents filter and input a term or passage for the app to look for. It worked well in my case, as it was able to look through .TXT and .PDF files and provide me with accurate results.

For convenience, certain files can also be opened directly in the program. While the integrated file viewer can open most files, I’d stick to using it for .TXT, .HTML, .XML, and other such formats.

If you’re having trouble finding a file, then you may want to try out MightyGrep. It’s not difficult to pick up and use, and the various available filtering options make it possible to look through your directories efficiently.