# Create and save a board file

> Start a new board as a .board file on your computer, save it to a folder you choose, and keep your changes saved as you work.

Source: https://mockflow.com/docs/create-a-board-file

A board file is a MockFlow board saved as a `.board` file on your computer instead of in the cloud. You create it from the **File mode** section of the workspace sidebar in the desktop app.

![Creating a board file: New file and New board file in the sidebar, items added to the untitled board, then saved as Store openings.board](https://assets.mockflow.com/docs/media/1679ee585764471a934e1ebcb06aa8f3.webp)

## Create a new board file

1. In the workspace sidebar, find the **File mode** section at the top.
2. Click the **New file** button, the plus sign.
3. Choose **New board file**. A new, untitled board opens in a window of its own.

The new board has the full MockFlow canvas, so you can add mind maps, kanban boards, charts, flowcharts, wireframes, text and shapes as on any board.

## Save the board file

1. Press Ctrl+S (⌘S on Mac).
2. The first time you save, choose a folder and type a file name. MockFlow adds the `.board` extension.
3. The file name appears at the top left of the window, such as **Store openings.board**.

When the board has changes that are not saved yet, a **Save Changes** button appears at the top right. Click it or press Ctrl+S (⌘S on Mac) to save. Board files are saved only when you save them, so save regularly.

If you quit the app with unsaved changes, MockFlow asks **Project is not saved. Do you want to quit app?** Click **No** and save first to keep your work.

## Next steps

- [Open a board file](/docs/open-a-board-file) later, or on another computer.
- [Add images to a board file](/docs/add-images-to-a-board-file).
- [Password protect a board file](/docs/password-protect-a-board-file).