FILE FORMART

• What is a file format? The term file format refers to the organization and layout of data that is stored in a file. As you might expect, music files are stored differently than text files or graphics files; but even within a single category of data, there are many file formats.

• For example, graphics data can be stored in file formats such as BMP, GIF, JPEG, or PNG. The format of a file usually includes a header, data, and possibly an end-of file marker. A file header is a section of data at the beginning of a file that contains information about a file—typically the date it was created, the date it was last updated, its size, and its file type.

• Is a file extension the same as a file format? No.

Although a file extension is a good indicator of a file’s format, it does not really define the format.

• You could use the Rename command to change a QuickTime movie called Balloons.mov to Balloons.docx.

• Despite the .docx extension, the file is still in QuickTime format because the data elements in the file are arranged in a specific configuration unique to QuickTime.

• What should I know about file formats? Each software application works with specific file formats. When you use the Open dialog box, most applications automatically comb through your files to display a list of files that are stored in file formats they can use.

• Some operating systems also do a fairly good job of shielding users from the intricacies of file formats.

• For example, Windows uses a file association list to link file formats with corresponding application software so that when you double-click a file name, your computer automatically opens a software application that works with the correct file format.