A confusing distinction for beginners is the difference between SAVE AS and SAVE. What does each one do? When do you one versus the other.
For example, in Microsoft Word, when you click the File tab in the top-left corner of the screen (File menu on Mac), SAVE and SAVE AS are both listed.
So, what is the difference? This short post has the answers.
1. Saving a file for the first time
When you save a new file (a document, spreadsheet etc.) for the first time, SAVE and SAVE AS do exactly the same thing.
So choose either option.
The keyboard shortcut to save a file is Ctrl + S.
2. Saving a file for the second time onwards
If you make changes to a file that has already been saved, then SAVE and SAVE AS do different things.
Most times, SAVE is the easiest option because then you only have one file to worry about.
3. Reasons for using SAVE AS
There are 2 main reasons you would choose SAVE AS.
How to use SAVE AS to clone an existing file:
1. Open the original file.
2. Click the File tab (File menu on Mac) and choose SAVE AS.
3. Type your new file name and choose a location (Desktop folder, Documents folder etc.)
4. Click OK.
You are now working on the new file. Whenever you are ready to save, simply press Ctrl + S or click the File tab and choose Save.
I hope you found plenty of value in this post. I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway in the comments below together with any questions you may have.
Have a fantastic day.
About the author
Jason Morrell
Jason loves to simplify the hard stuff, cut the fluff and share what actually works. Things that make a difference. Things that slash hours from your daily work tasks. He runs a software training business in Queensland, Australia, lives on the Gold Coast with his wife and 4 kids and often talks about himself in the third person!
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