I frequently get asked this question: “How can I find a file after I’ve copied it from my PC to my phone?”

First word of warning: Just because you can copy the file doesn’t mean that your Android gizmo will recognize it. I suppose that’s the same warning you get on a PC, where any file not recognized becomes one of those unknown “Open with what?” types of files.

Of all the files copied from a PC to a phone (or tablet), the most common seem to be eBook files. It makes sense to copy such a file: You want to read the eBook on your mobile device.

Bad news: You can’t just copy an eBook file to your gizmo and expect an eBook reader to recognize it. I’m sure there’s some internal trick or hack that could make such a thing work, but it’s not anything I want to get into.

eBooks are designed to be read by eBook readers and the whole point is that you must obtain the eBook at some type of eBookstore. That way authors (such as myself) can be paid for their efforts. That’s the point.

Now that you’re fully aware of the eBook limitation, the big picture involves finding a file you’ve copied from your computer to your mobile device.

The basic file transfer is outlined in my various Android For Dummies books: You connect the two devices. You open a folder window for the device on the PC or you use the Android File Transfer program on a Macintosh. Swippity-swap the files. Disconnect. You’re done.

In most cases, your phone or tablet should instantly recognize the file:

• Audio files are played by the device’s Music app.
• Pictures and videos are displayed by using the Gallery app, Pictures app, or similar media-viewing app.
• Office and PDF files are viewed using Open Office or Polaris Office.
• And so on.

If you’re versed in file management, then you probably have a desire to put the files in a proper location. That’s not really necessary, but if you’re concerned, here’s my advice:

Place any file you copy into the Download or Downloads folder.

There. That’s easy to remember — and it makes sense: Technically speaking, you’ve just downloaded the file from your computer to the Android device.

Specific folders are available in Android for specific things. For example, if you go file spelunking you’ll find folders for music and pictures. I wouldn’t recommend messing with them unless you’re familiar with how files are stored in those folders. Otherwise, use the Downloads folder.

Oh, and you can always do some file spelunking, which was explained in a recent blog post.