Paste

What is Paste?


Definition

Paste is the action of inserting content from the clipboard into a document, file, or selected location. This action places the most recently copied or cut item at the current insertion point without requiring the content to be recreated. This matters because it enables information to be reused or moved efficiently, which supports faster work and reduces the risk of errors from retyping.

Frayer Model Overview

Frayer model diagram explaining the computer term “Paste,” with sections for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples.

Characteristics

  • Inserts content stored on the clipboard

  • Depends on what was most recently copied or cut

  • Places content at the current selection or insertion point

  • Does not remove the original when copied

  • Works across many applications

Examples

  • Pasting text into a Word document

  • Pasting an image copied from a webpage

  • Pasting a copied cell into another area in Excel

  • Pasting text into an email message

  • Pasting content from one application into another

Non-Examples

  • Typing new text manually

  • Copying content without inserting it

  • Cutting content without placing it elsewhere

  • Dragging content to a new location

  • Saving a file

Related Terms

See It In Action