Which of the following methods is a way to superficially delete files on a hard...

“Superficially delete” in this context means removing data without physically destroying the drive—i.e., using a logical/sanitization method rather than a destruction method. Drilling and shredding are explicit physical destruction techniques that render a drive unusable, while degaussing is a purging/destruction-style method that disrupts magnetic fields and also makes the drive unreliable for future use. The remaining choices (wiping and low-level formatting) are software-based sanitization approaches. In A+ terminology, a low-level format is contrasted with a standard format and is commonly associated with a complete overwrite/zero-fill process that clears the disk so data does not remain recoverable, while still leaving the drive functional afterward. The All-in-One guide notes that modern “low-level formatting” is often used to describe a zero-fill/overwrite operation that writes zeros to every location on the drive. It also distinguishes this from normal deletion, where data can remain until overwritten. Likewise, Docter differentiates formatting vs sanitation vs destruction, emphasizing that sanitation (including low-level formats/wipes) removes data without tossing media for “prying eyes.”