Using Open for Apps, Files, and Shortcut Menus
Using Open for Apps, Files, and Shortcut Menus records a distinct source-supported procedure-writing task while keeping adjacent UI behavior, accessibility concerns, and implementation mechanics outside the page.
Use “open” for apps or programs, panes, File Explorer, files and folders, shortcut menus, and webpages when matching the UI requires it; do not use “open” for commands or menus.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
For ordinary websites and webpages, Microsoft prefers “go to” unless “open” is needed to match the UI.
Further guidance
Content
Use “open” for apps or programs, panes, File Explorer, files and folders, shortcut menus, and webpages when matching the UI requires it; do not use “open” for commands or menus.
Purpose
This keeps the verb tied to the kind of UI object the reader is interacting with.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Describing interactions with the UI — Microsoft Style Guide (opens in a new tab)Microsoft · Current Microsoft Style Guide evidence for input-neutral UI action verbs including open, close, go to, select, choose, clear, enter, switch/turn on/turn off, move/drag, move through, and zoom.