Lesson 12

File Types

Learn what different file types are for. The main idea is that file endings tell you something about how a file works and what you can do with it.

Project: Learn the properties of common file types across documents, images, audio, video, archives, and applications. Skill: Practical computer use

Your project

Learn the properties of common file types across the major categories: documents, images, audio, video, archives, and applications.

Steps

  • Find example files from each major category if you can.
  • Write down what each file type is for.
  • Open a few files from different categories and notice which programs they open in.
  • Compare different image formats (JPG, PNG, WEBP).
  • Compare an audio file with a video file and explain the difference.
  • Explain why you would choose one file type over another in each category.

What to practice

  • Look at file extensions.
  • Notice which apps open which files.
  • Be careful with application files (.exe, .dmg, .app, etc.) — only open them if you trust the source, because they can install software or run code on your computer.
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