# Setting the priority of encoding auto-detection

To set the priority of encoding auto-detection:

1. Choose CotEditor > Preferences.
2. Click Format.
3. In the File Encoding section, click Edit Encoding List.
4. Move up the encodings you use frequently, and place UTF-16 right under them.
   (As UTF-16 is able to encode most characters, you need to put it at the bottom of often-used encodings.)

Though you can change the order of encodings, you cannot delete them. Just move down the encodings you don't use.

## See also

- What is the difference between the four kinds of Shift JIS?