This functionality may be damaged for one or more programs, e.g. Windows Explorer may not show recently visited folders, Microsoft Word may not show recently opened documents, etc.

All of these problems are fixed by deleting the stored information from the folders that Windows use to display it. Go to %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\AutomaticDestinations and delete all files in that folder. Then go to %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\CustomDestinations and delete everything in this folder too. You can open easily these folders if you press Win + R and then paste each of the addresses to the command box that opens.

After you delete the files in these folders, the list will be cleared and new information about your recently opened programs, folders and files will start to be gathered and displayed properly.

A good idea would also be to have your “recent” folder (%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent) excepted from your anti-virus resident shield protection. You may also like to have your jump lists automatically repaired, if this problem reappears rather often. Enjoy!