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Three Methods:Changing 'Date Modified' in Windows 7Changing File Dates in Windows VistaChanging a File Date on a Mac using OS X

When a file is created on a computer, it is automatically given a set of attributes. These attributes include the date, size and file format. This process occurs on Windows and Mac OS X platforms. File dates occasionally must be changed to put them in some better order. This guide shows you how to change file attributes on Windows and OS X platforms.

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EditMethod 1 of 3: Changing 'Date Modified' in Windows 7

  1. Change File Dates Step 1.jpg
    1
    Set clock (bottom right of desktop) to the desired date/time
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  2. Change File Dates Step 2.jpg
    2
    Open file
  3. Change File Dates Step 3.jpg
    3
    Save file as itself
  4. Change File Dates Step 4.jpg
    4
    Close file
  5. Change File Dates Step 5.jpg
    5
    Revert to normal time

EditMethod 2 of 3: Changing File Dates in Windows Vista

  1. Change File Dates Step 6.jpg
    1
    Right-click on the file with the date you want to change. Access the Properties menu.
  2. Change File Dates Step 7.jpg
    2
    Click on the "Custom" tab in the Properties menu.
  3. Change File Dates Step 8.jpg
    3
    Select which type of date you want to change under the "Name" field.

EditMethod 3 of 3: Changing a File Date on a Mac using OS X

  1. Change File Dates Step 9.jpg
    1
    Download a file editing application. There will be further directions with the software, but the basics are listed below.
  2. 2
    Launch "Terminal." You will find this in "Applications/Utilities."
  3. 3
    Key in the following command: "touch �t YYYYMMDDhhmm.ss" to start the process. The modification date needs "touch �mt�" as opposed to "touch �t�."
  4. 4
    Walk through the steps given, and add the year, month, day and time as requested.
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EditTips

  • Simple changes to a user file happen when the file is resaved.
  • There are third-party programs available to help with more detailed changes.

EditWarnings

  • Find an expert if you feel uncomfortable changing the attributes of a file.

EditSources and Citations

Article Info

Categories: Accuracy | Computers and Electronics

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