Transferring Data to new OS

[MaXiMus M8]

Hi i have a trial of windows 8.1 at the moment and have done quite a lot on it i want to copy all data to the new operating system on the pc. Can i copy the hardrive in my computer (when in my computer hardrive with os is displayed) and put it on a usb. The usb is big enough to put the data on. Will this work once i have installed the new os and copy it onto the same drive.

Thanks

 

[i7Baby]

What is the new OS on the pc?

You can copy the data but not the OS and expect it to work.

 

[USAFRet]

Your 'data' (Docs/Music/Video/etc), yes.
Your applications, no.

Applications will need to be reinstalled with the new OS.

 

[MaXiMus M8]

it is windows 8

 

[i7Baby]

You want to get rid of 8.1 and put in 8? As above - put the data on your usb. Then install Windows 8 on the HDD. Then put your drivers, applications and data back on it.