Body
Summary
Checking files in and out of a SharePoint document library helps prevent conflicting edits and ensures version accuracy. When a file is checked out, only the person who checked it out can make changes until it is checked back in. This article provides step‑by‑step instructions for checking out files, checking them back in, and discarding a check‑out if needed.
How-To
Task: Check out files in a SharePoint document library
Use check‑out when you want to prevent others from editing a file while you make changes.
Instructions
Step 1 - Open the SharePoint document library containing the file.
Step 2 - Select the file you want to check out.
Step 3 - Select More (…) in the toolbar and choose Check out.
- Alternatively you may right‑click the file → More → Check out.
Step 4 - A checked‑out icon will appear next to the file name.
Note:
- To check in or check out multiple files or to check in files on behalf of someone else, you may need to switch to classic SharePoint experience.
- To exit classic mode, close all browser windows and sign back in to Microsoft 365.
Outcome
You have successfully checked out a file in a SharePoint document library.
Back to top
Task: Check in files in a SharePoint document library
Once you finish editing, check the file back in so others can see your updates.
Instructions
Step 1 - Open the document library and select the file.
Step 2 - Select More (…) → Check in.
- Alternatively you may right‑click the file → More → Check in.
Step 3 - Enter optional comments describing your changes.
Step 4 - Select Check in to complete the process.
Important:
- If you receive a message that the item wasn’t updated, ensure you have saved your changes before checking in.
Note:
- To check in or check out multiple files or to check in files on behalf of someone else, you may need to switch to classic SharePoint experience.
- To exit classic mode, close all browser windows and sign back in to Microsoft 365.
Outcome
You have successfully checked in a file in a SharePoint document library.
Back to top
Task: Discard a check‑out
Discarding a check‑out removes your lock on the file and reverts all changes you made since checking it out. To save your changes, use Check In instead.
Instructions
Step 1 - Open the document library and select the file.
Step 2 - Select More (…) → Discard check out.
- Alternatively you may right‑click the file → More → Discard check out.
Step 3 - Confirm by selecting Yes.
Note:
- If you cannot discard a check‑out (for example, you don't see the option or you no longer have access), a Site Owner can discard the check‑out for you.
Outcome
You have successfully discarded a check‑out for a file in a SharePoint document library.
Back to top
Further Readings
Microsoft Support – Check out or check in files in a document library
Need additional help?
For assistance concerning site creation, content sharing, file synchronization, or other common SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams, or Office app activities, we recommend our Microsoft 365 Learning sites:
Learn more about the great tools our Microsoft 365 Learning sites offer!
Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.