How to Compare 2 Files in Notepad++
Comparing two files is a common task in various scenarios, such as software development, document review, and research. Notepad++ is a popular text editor that offers a built-in feature to compare two files side by side. In this article, we will guide you through the process of comparing two files in Notepad++ efficiently.
Step 1: Open Notepad++
Firstly, launch Notepad++ on your computer. If you haven’t installed it yet, you can download it from the official website (https://notepad-plus-plus.org/).
Step 2: Open the first file
Once Notepad++ is open, go to the “File” menu and select “Open.” Navigate to the location of the first file you want to compare and click “Open.” The file will now be displayed in the editor.
Step 3: Open the second file
With the first file open, go to the “File” menu again and select “Open.” Choose the second file you want to compare and click “Open.” This file will also be displayed in the editor.
Step 4: Compare the files
Now that both files are open in Notepad++, you can compare them by going to the “View” menu and selecting “Split Vertically.” This will split the editor window into two panes, each displaying one of the files.
Step 5: Adjust the view
You can resize the panes by clicking and dragging the separator between them. This will allow you to view both files side by side comfortably.
Step 6: Use the built-in compare feature
To make the comparison process more efficient, Notepad++ offers a built-in compare feature. Go to the “View” menu and select “Compare.” This will open a new window with the differences between the two files highlighted.
Step 7: Save the comparison
If you want to save the comparison for future reference, go to the “File” menu and select “Save.” Choose a location and file name for the comparison file, and click “Save.”
Conclusion
Comparing two files in Notepad++ is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. By utilizing the built-in compare feature, you can easily identify differences between files and make necessary adjustments. Notepad++ is a versatile text editor that is well-suited for a variety of tasks, including file comparison.
