Question about installing windows 8

[rpalmz46]

I currently on my PC have windows 7 and I am looking to install windows 8 because I have used it before and I like it because it seems to overall run smoother than windows 7. The question I have is when I go to the install menu from the boot screen and I install it do i have to delete windows 7 or just install over it and also will this delete my stuff, its not a problem if it does because I want a fresh os install just want to know.

Thanks to any replys in advance.

[Jade]

Generally: Yes, yes, respectively. If going from Windows 7 > Windows 8 (not 8.1) you can keep anything in your Documents folder.

[NumLock21]

When you boot from the Windows 8 install disc or USB, at the point where you see the HDD partitions, there is a advanced options. Under advanced options, there is a format. Format will erase the partition that you have selected and what whatever data you have will be wiped out. If you don't click on format and just install Windows 8 on the same partition as Windows 7, after installation is complete, your Windows 7 account will be in a folder call Windows.old.

You can either upgrade from Win7 to Win8

Shrink the partition and install Win8 on a clean partiton and run dual boot

Back up data to some where else, then wipe out drive to run a clean install