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Uploading Files: How to Send a File to a Website

By the Gray Hair Jobs Editorial Team · Published · 2 min read

The short answer

Uploading means sending a copy of a file from your computer or phone to a website. On most sites, you click a button such as Upload, Choose file, or Browse, find your file, and select it. Your original file stays where it was. Knowing where your files are saved is the most helpful first step.

Key points

  • Uploading sends a copy; your original file stays on your device.
  • Common buttons are Upload, Choose file, Browse, or Attach.
  • Downloaded files usually go to the Downloads folder.
  • Clear file names make the right file easy to find.
  • Some sites limit file types or file size.

Know where your files are

Before uploading, it helps to know where your file is saved. Common places include:

  • Documents. A standard folder for letters, resumes, and other papers.
  • Desktop. The main screen of your computer.
  • Downloads. Where files from the internet usually go, including PDFs you download from Google Docs.

On a Windows computer, open File Explorer (the folder icon on the taskbar). On a Mac, open Finder (the smiling face icon in the Dock). Both show these folders on the left side.

Give files clear names

A name like "Jane-Miller-Resume.pdf" is easier to find than "Document1". To rename a file, right-click it (on a Mac, Control-click) and choose Rename. Keep the ending, such as .pdf or .docx, the same.

Upload from a computer

  1. On the website, click the upload button. It may say Upload, Choose file, Browse, or Attach.
  2. A window opens showing your folders.
  3. Click the folder where your file is saved, such as Documents or Downloads.
  4. Click your file once to select it.
  5. Click Open (or Choose or Upload, depending on your computer).
  6. Check that your file name now appears on the website.

Some sites also let you drag the file from a folder and drop it onto a box on the page.

Upload from a phone or tablet

  1. Tap the upload button on the website or app.
  2. Your phone offers places to choose from, such as Files, Browse, Photos, or a cloud service like Google Drive or iCloud Drive.
  3. Find your file and tap it.
  4. Check that the file name appears.

The exact wording can vary by device and version.

If the upload does not work

  • Check that the file type is allowed. Many job sites accept PDF and Word files.
  • Check the file size. Very large files may be rejected.
  • Try a different browser, or close and reopen the page.

For job applications specifically, see how to upload a resume.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between uploading and downloading?

Downloading brings a file from the internet onto your device, like saving a PDF from a website. Uploading does the opposite: it sends a file from your device to a website. When you apply for a job, you upload your resume. When you save a document from Google Docs, you download it.

Why can't I find a file I just downloaded?

Most downloaded files go to the Downloads folder. On Windows, open File Explorer and click Downloads on the left. On a Mac, open Finder and click Downloads. Your web browser also keeps a list of recent downloads, often shown by a downward arrow icon near the top right.

Is it safe to upload my resume to job sites?

Uploading to well-known job sites and real employer websites is generally fine. Keep sensitive information off your resume, such as your Social Security number, birth date, and full street address. Only upload documents like ID copies after confirming the employer is real and has made you an offer.

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