So I wrote a chapter for a new fanfic story, and when I checked it out the day after, it was blank. Not like it got deleted, but like all the letters were replaced with spaces. Changing the font sometimes causes the letters to be replaced by weird symbols, but no change makes it go back to the words. I was using wordpad.

I can rewrite it if necessary, but if it's possible to restore it, I'd like to try. It was pretty good, even if I do say so myself. I'd like to restore it if possible, 'cause I don't think I could rewrite it as good as it was before.

Unfortunately, I don't currently have a backup for this one. My other documents are fine. Anyone got any ideas?

The only way to restore is if you have backups.

In windows there's a function called 'File History" which allows you to restore previous versions of a file. But the file usually needs to be at least a day old for this to work... depending how often you have set the service to backup.

If you have that function turned on... go into windows explorer (or file manager) and right click on the file and select previous version.

You can also try Google search for 'restore previous version' for some more ideas.

I tried google, and so far nothing has helped. I think I'll have to rewrite it, but it's a bummer.

But thanks anyway.

I doubt you're alone in the frustration. XD I'm sure many of us has lost plenty of hard work due to file corruption... *raises hand slowly* XD

Oh! Since it's corrupt, maybe you can bribe it! lol

Sorry... couldn't resist...

*groans*

I'm keeping some sort of backup from now on.

I am certain this is a long shot but have you checked your temp file folder in the event of a back up?

I have no idea how to. I'm not very tech-savy

On your local drive, and depending what version of Windows you are running, go to your Windows folder and look for the temp folder.

I didn't understand any of that. I'm sorry, I'm pathetic.

I did rewrite the corrupted chapter, so if I can't get this back, it's okay.

No problem.

Go into your Windows Explorer, select the c:/ and click into the Windows Directory. From there search for the Temp folder.

All right, I found it, and unfortunately, the temp folder is empty. I think technology doesn't like me... lol.

Sorry.

Quite often I find virus scanners can be the cause of corruption.

I always advise people to ditch them and just use the built-in windows defender products. They're update more regularly than most others and don't interfere or slow your computer down as much.

I also advise people to never pay for virus or other protection software. All they provide is unnecessary services and products that clog up your computer and clear out your wallet.



I'm a firm believer that most virus detected are either fake or created by these companies to keep themselves in business.

Good to know, thanks!