Quick format is not a full erase
A quick format rebuilds parts of the file system but may not immediately overwrite all file content. Recovery may still be possible depending on the format operation, later writes, media type, and data layout.
Use the right scan order
Analyze the formatted volume read-only. Inspect any remaining file-system records first, then use a full signature scan if the directory is incomplete. Deep scans can find more content but often lose names, dates, and original folders.
Recover to another drive or volume and do not delete source content to make room.
Full format and SSD differences
A full format, substantial later writes, and SSD TRIM can sharply reduce recoverability. Software cannot restore bytes that have been overwritten or are no longer exposed by the device.
Common question
Can original file names survive a quick format?
Some names and folders may remain when file-system records are readable. A deep signature scan usually cannot preserve the original path.