One of the little known features of Microsoft Word is its built-in auto-save function that automatically saves a copy of the file to a separate (hidden) directory. When you start typing/editing your word document, Windows by default automatically saves a backup of the file in every ten minutes once this auto-save function is on. These word documents usually are stored temporarily at these locations:
C:\Documents and Settings\Username\Application\Data\Microsoft\Word
C:\Documents and Settings\Username\Local Settings\Temp
Unless you have modified this auto-save function of Windows, you should be able to retrieve back all recently edited word documents even if you get struck by a system failure or power loss. Take note that the backup copy of your recently edited word files are hidden, so make sure to show all hidden documents when you start searching for unsaved word document.
If you're using Word 2007, chances of getting back your unsaved word file are even greater with the Auto Recovery Feature of Microsoft Word 2007. Microsoft Word 2007 comes with auto recovery facility that will automatically recover the lost/unsaved word file after system crash or power shortage.
This auto-recovery feature of Word 2007 poised to be the best way to recover unsaved word documents. To enable this feature, follow these steps:
1. Go to "Word" and click "Word Options"
2. Click on "Advanced Tab".
3. Check "Always create backup copy" then "Allow background saves" (this should instruct Windows to recover files automatically in the future).
There you have it! Say goodbye to all the hassles of retyping lost/unsaved word file by following those simple tips.
Via: http://tiptutorial.com/computers-a-it/item/how-to-recover-unsaved-word-documents.html?category_id=4
