# File Formats

Beyond Compare uses file formats to specify how certain types of files are to be handled. For example, files with a .jpg or .png extension are associated with Picture Compare, while .c and .cpp files are recognized as having C/C++ syntax and are handled by Text Compare. You can modify the built-in file formats or create your own. File formats determine: •The type of view used for visual comparison •What conversion, if any, should be performed before comparing or saving •The syntax, or grammar, of the file's content •Case sensitivity of grammar elements •Tab stops •Line weights to help the alignment process File formats primarily control how the file views handle your files, but they can also affect how a folder session compares file contents. If you use rules-based content comparison, then the folder session can limit the display to only files with important differences. See also File Format Management Rules vs. File Formats