Short Answer 
A computer file stores data and is identified by its file name, functioning like a container for various information types. Files are categorized by types and extensions, which indicate how they are managed and which applications can open them, while understanding file formats is essential for effective data sharing and editing.
Step 1: Understanding What a File Is
A computer file is a resource that stores data, allowing for easy retrieval and use by the computer system. It is primarily identified by its file name and can be thought of as a container that holds various types of information, similar to a folder or document in a physical office. Data can be written to a file just like you would write on paper, and files can contain different formats, including text documents, images, and spreadsheets.
Step 2: Recognizing File Types and Extensions
Files come in various types, which determine how they are organized and stored within a computer. Each file type is usually identified by its file extension, which is the suffix part of the file name. For example, in “maneuvering the middle llc 2016 worksheets answer key 7th grade.pdf”, the .pdf extension indicates that this file is a Portable Document Format file. Understanding file types helps in knowing which applications can open and edit those files.
Step 3: Importance of File Formats
The file format refers to the specific way data is stored within the file itself. Different formats dictate how information is structured, which affects the file’s usability and compatibility with various applications. Knowing the file format is crucial for tasks such as sharing, editing, or preserving the quality of the data. For example, PDF files are often used for sharing documents while preserving their formatting across different devices.