I save all my work to a folder named "Alex". It contains sub folders for different things including correspondence, photographs, music etc. This folder appears at the top of the right hand side of the Start menu.

If I go to open a file through this short, cut a window appears giving the "tree" of folders and files and across the top is the full description of the file location beginning >Alex>......>filename.

However, if I highlight the file, right click and open properties, its location is described as C:/User/User/filename.

Also if I double click on the computer short cut on the right hand side of the Start menu, I get a window showing the partitions of the hard drive (OS (C:) and RECOVERY (D:)) ad the DVD RW Drive (E:). Opening OS (C:) I find folder for DELL, Drivers, Program files etc and Users. Opening Users I find Public, User and User two. User contains all the folders and files in my Alex folder.

Why do my files have alterative location names? Can I simplify it to just C:/Alex/..... What is the normal practice?

I am using a Dell Inspiron 1525 with Windows Vista Home Premium.

Thank you
Alex

Vista uses a number of basic Folders one of which is Users inside which it holds a folder for each user account and for PUBLIC folders - in your case Alex is one of these user accounts.
Each User Account will have its own SET of basic folders.
Suggest you Right Click on START and open EXPLORE and OPEN ALL USERS reduce your C: drive down to its basic folders and have good look at them to get an idea of the structure.
I wouldn't try changing anything - just get used to the structure and accept as normal.

Thank you. I thought I had messed up the settings!