Sort by bar dissapeared in Windows 7 folder explorer when viewing icons

Question

Under Windows 7 sorting by thumbnail icon files takes longer, or a different path of clicks.

I have to switch viewing files in details mode (select from the sorting bar) and then sort by date modified, then get back to the icons view mode.

I don't even bother right-clicking because sort by DATE MODIFIED doesn't exist by default so I have to add it from the menu and then make the sorting. So tiring! Can't believe they took this bar off. It was priceless!

Is there a shortcut or way to make this sorting (by date modified) quicker?

Answer 1

Why can't you add it (the Date modified column) in Details view? You only need to do this once, and then it will persist. Here's what I suggest:

1. Right-click the folder / Properties / Customize tab and select the folder template (for example, General Items):

   

   You can also select the Also apply this template to all subfolders checkbox (purpose should be obvious).

2. Now switch to the Details view and add the columns you'd like to sort by (for example, Date modified)

3. Then switch to the view you prefer (for example, Small icons), right-click in the folder / Sort by / Date modified, right-click / Group by (if required) etc.

4. Once you have the folder view set up exactly how you like it, go to Organize / Folder and search options / View tab and click on the Apply to Folders button:

   

   Click Yes when prompted and this will make all folders that use the General Items template look exactly the same. So basically, all you need to do is spend some time to set up a single folder as you like it, and then you can easily replicate the view across all other folders.

Answer 2

Go to organize > folder and search options > view tab > always show menus. Then under the view menu you can do the sort by and customize this to whatever you want to be able to sort by.