Windows 10: This File Can't Be Previewed

All of a sudden, my previews stopped working in Explorer. They were working just fine, so not sure if an update messed it up or not. I know I didn't change anything. Pictures will show, but not documents Word, Excel, etc.. I've been sitting here for over an hour Googling and trying all the instructions I've read and nothing has worked. Getting frustrated because it was working until just recently. Any ideas? Thank you! :

:)

 

Previewing files

Hello DE906,

To better assist you with your concern, I'd like to know the following:

• Confirm which build is currently installed on your device. To check, follow the steps below:

1. Press Windows key + R, then type in winver.
2. Click OK.

• Were there any recent changes made prior to this issue?
• What is the PDF viewer that you're using?

Meanwhile, if you're using Adobe Acrobat; I'd recommend performing the steps in this
article
to enable thumbnail preview of PDF's in Windows Explorer.

Also, you can check this article
for the .docx issue.

Looking forward to your response.

Regards.

 

Delete and Cut Files with Preview Pane Open

Hi,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

I understand your concern and will assist you to resolve this issue.

• Have you tried to delete the pdf file in preview panel?
• What exactly happens when try to delete the pdf file?

I suggest you to follow the steps below and check if it helps.

• 
  Open File Explorer.
  
• 
  Select View and click on preview panel.
  
• 
  Select the pdf file.
  
• 
  At the right corner you will be able to see preview panel.
  
• 
  You can right click on it and delete the files.
  

Hope this helps. If the issue remains unresolved, please get back to us and we would be happy to help.

 

"This file can't be previewed" problem in explorer

Hi Deborah,

For us to provide an accurate resolution, kindly elaborate the issue by answering the questions listed below:

• Since when have you been experiencing this issue?
• Were there any changes on your PC before this happened like software or updates installed?

For initial troubleshooting, we suggest that you follow the steps listed below:

• Open File Explorer.
• Access this link
  
  C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer
• Delete all the files.
• After deleting the files kindly try and see if there's a thumbnail preview of your files.

We're looking forward to your response.