Renaming files

[jgriffin]

In windows vista, when I wanted to rename files in a folder all I had to do was right click on one file, rename it and click tab to move to the next file to rename. I didn't have to right click every single file, click rename, type the name, press enter and then move on. This has become a huge problem for me in windows 7 and I cannot seem to find an answer of solution to this problem.

I open a folder that has 27 pictures; I want to rename those pictures in a consectutive order, but in the order I want them to be; for example: R2290-01 and I want that exact style to follow through until R2290-27. I am okay with renaming every file by hand, but I want to be able to "TAB" between them and not right click and rename everytime.

HELP ME PLEASE! This is driving me absolutely nuts.

 

[Maguscreed]

If this is a common thing for you, might I suggest a completely different approach.
Introduction - Bulk Rename Utility

 

[ignatzatsonic]

I didn't even know about the tab thing to move between files, but I agree with Maguscreed.

If you do it regularly, use a tool.

I use Name It Your Way, an easily found free tool that works well on Windows 7. Below is a screenshot of the results I just got after fiddling for 20 minutes or so. I had never attempted "auto-numbering", but as you can see, I got it to work. You can no doubt adapt it to your needs.

I used 4 random mp3s as a test case. You see their original names under "old name" in the upper left. You see the new name in the upper right. The auto-numbering increments from (01) to (04). You could just as easily made it increment as -01, -02... or for that matter Z-01, Z-02. You choose the characters and spacing.

The characters and spacing is controlled by "rules" that you make to fit the exact case. You can see the 3 rules I used in the bottom panel.

The rules are applied in the order in which they are shown.

The first rule adds the number to the end of the name, just before file extension.

The second rule adds the right paren ) to the right edge of the name, ignoring the extension.

The third rule adds a space and the left paren ( 4 characters from the right edge of the name, ignoring the extension.

The learning curve is modest and the interface is highly intuitive. The dropdowns are explained. There is a "Wizard", but I don't use it. This is a great tool that can rename 1000 files in a few seconds. You just write your own rules to govern your precise requirements.

 

[Ztruker]

Instead of the Tab key, use the down arrow and press the Space bar, then F2.