Issues while using Sort by option in File Explorer

Question

I can't recall exactly when the issue began, but for the past while many files have been missing their "Sort by" columns. I only see the three tabs: "ascending," descending," and "choose columns." Clicking the "choose columns" opens up the checkbox menu as usual, but none of the columns I check show up. This is a problem since I'm unable to sort my files full of pictures by date created/taken. This problem doesn't appear for all files, but does for most.

I'm only able to use the "Sort by" columns if I have the files organized with the "Group by" option, but this is a bit clunky.

I'm running Windows 10 Home version 1903. Let me know if there's any other information required.

***Original title: Windows Explorer not showing "Sort by" columns***

Answer 1

Hi Josh,

Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.

I understand your query related to Sort by option not working correctly on your PC.

I would suggest you to follow the steps mentioned below and see if that helps.

Method 1:

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Try troubleshooting File Explorer using the troubleshooter. Refer the article Automatically diagnose and repair Windows file and folder problems and see if that helps.

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Method 2:

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Try resetting the File Explorer settings to defaults and see if that helps.

1. Press Windows + E key to open File Explorer.
2. Now click on View and click on Options.
3. On the Folder Options window click on Restore Defaults.
4. Now click on View tab and click on Restore Defaults.

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Method 3:

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To isolate the issue related to user account corruption, try creating a new user account and then test the issue. Refer the article Create a local user or administrator account in Windows 10

In addition, please share the screenshot of the Sort by option of the File Explorer window. Refer the article by CmdrKeene How to include a screenshot in your post

Note: Please make sure you do not capture any PII on the screenshot.

Regards,

Prakhar Khare

Microsoft Community – Moderator

Answer 2

Hi Josh,

Thank you for replying.

Glad to know that the issue is resolved and everything is working fine.

Regards,

Prakhar Khare

Microsoft Community – Moderator

Answer 3

Method 1 seems to have fixed the issue. Hopefully it won't return. Thanks for your help!