i didnt do it because i installed ram. the computer is 4yrs old and had alot of crap on it so i just wanted to wipe it all off and start all over thanks for the help
That's why there's a files and settings transfer wizard for creating backups. Once the fresh copy is on you simply import a backup. Of course that's known as the slow ketchup there.
The simple solution is regular backups at all times in case Windows gets foobarred, you reinstall for a dual or multi boot, or even a worst case drive crash where everything is safe elsewhere already. I think cbtech73 had already thought of those things there prior to proceeding however.