How to Create a Partition in Windows 10 During the Setup Process
“Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” option to access the partitioning tools. You’ll see existing partitions and available free space (like empty lots waiting for development). Highlight the unallocated space, click the “New” button, and decide how big your new partition should be. Once you’ve set the size, click “Apply”, and Windows will format it automatically—no fuss.
Pro tip: If you’re using a UEFI system with GPT, Windows usually handles most of the partitioning behind the scenes. But it’s handy to know you can do it manually if needed. Fancy some command-line action? Press Shift + F10 during setup to open Command Prompt. From there, you can run some diskpart commands to get more detailed control.
Using DiskPart in Setup
diskpart
list disk
select disk 0
list partition
create partition primary size=XXXX
format fs=ntfs quick
assign
exit“Next” to proceed with the Windows installation. It’ll take a little while to copy files, so sit tight. When the setup finishes, your drive will be neatly organised—making future updates, backups, and file management much simpler, right?
Helpful Tips for Partitioning During Windows 10 Setup
Del or F2 during boot to access your BIOS/UEFI settings, letting you see if your drive is GPT or MBR formatted.
When deciding partition sizes, think about your future needs. Make sure you set aside enough space for the OS, applications, and updates. Forgetting to do so can cause headaches later if updates refuse to fit. A bit of forethought now can save a lot of hassle down the track, especially if you’re managing your storage based on how you use your PC.
Common Questions About Disk Partitioning in Windows 10
What exactly is a disk partition in Windows 10?
Basically, a partition is like a designated “section” of your hard drive. It helps keep things organised, allows you to run multiple operating systems, or separate your personal files from system files. It’s all about tidy storage.
Why does partitioning matter during the Windows installation?
Setting up partitions during install makes managing your drive much easier. You can keep your personal data separate from the system files, which simplifies backups and makes future upgrades less of a headache.
Can I create multiple partitions while installing?
Absolutely! As long as there’s unallocated space left, you can carve it up into several partitions—perfect for backups, a second OS, or just keeping things tidy.
What if I accidentally delete a partition?
Oops. Deleting a partition wipes everything inside it. If it’s an accident, tools like TestDisk may help recover files, but prevention is always better—double-check before hitting delete!
Can I resize partitions after Windows is installed?
Yes! Windows has a built-in Disk Management tool (found in Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Computer Management > Disk Management) that lets you resize or create partitions even after setup. There are also third-party tools like EaseUS Partition Master that offer more advanced options.
Quick Summary for Partitioning During Windows 10 Setup
- Boot your PC using the Windows installation media.
- Select the “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” option.
- Locate the unallocated space on your drive.
- Create a new partition by specifying its size, then click “Next”.
- Follow the prompts to complete installing Windows on your new partition.
diskpart or graphical utilities, you’ll be able to customise your storage to suit your needs perfectly.