Quote Originally Posted by 12vdc View Post
Was the folder My Documents set to private mode? If that is, it will be encrypted and you will not be able to recover the files easily by docking your hardisk to another computer. .
I'm not sure but it's just the default setting. I did not make any changes when I bought my laptop.

Quote Originally Posted by 12vdc View Post
That i think are your best options for now, beyond that you need to learn more tech stuff. The risk of losing the file will be high since it will be a trial and error for first timers. I've recovered files of my coworkers laptops and most difficult ones are those with damaged hardisk. I suggest you buy new PC or lappy asap, make your old laptop as backup if you will be able to fix it. Nowdays its practical to maintain 2 personal computer/laptop just for the sake of data backup/recovery.
I'm going to buy a new laptop this weekend. I really hope I could recover my files. It's so hard because most of the people who are really good in computers that I used to rely on have left the country already. I hate Brain drain talaga!!!

Thanks everyone for the replies. It's comforting to know there is a chance I could still get my old files back