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Set Up Repos Folder on Windows

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for completing required setup tasks on a Windows system using File Explorer.

All course repositories should be stored in a single local folder named Repos.

Task 1: Create C:\Repos (do not use Documents/OneDrive)

Windows often syncs the Documents folder with OneDrive, which can cause confusion and slowdowns when working with project repositories. Instead, create a local Repos folder that is not automatically synced.

Steps

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to This PC > Local Disk (C:).
  3. Create a new folder in the root of C:\ named Repos.

Keep all your project repositories in C:\Repos, not in Documents or other folders that may be syncing with OneDrive.

Task 2: Organize Repositories Inside C:\Repos

Each GitHub repository you use will have its own folder inside C:\Repos.

Verify

  • Confirm the folder path is exactly C:\Repos.
  • All cloned repositories should live directly inside this folder (for example: C:\Repos\applied-computing-foundations).

Task 3: Show File Extensions and Hidden Items

Hidden files (such as .git) and file extensions are commonly used in computing and programming work and must be visible.

Steps

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Click the View tab on the ribbon.
  3. In the Show/Hide group, check File name extensions.
  4. In the Show/Hide group, check Hidden items.

Task 4: OPTIONAL: Confirm OneDrive Is Not Syncing Repos

If OneDrive is enabled, confirm that your Repos folder is not being synced.

Steps

  1. Check the OneDrive icon in the taskbar (lower right).
  2. Right-click the icon and select Settings.
  3. Under the Account tab, review the folders being synced.
  4. Ensure the Repos folder (C:\Repos) is not listed.

Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Accidentally saved to OneDrive? Move the folder back to C:\Repos by dragging it in File Explorer.