A directory structure is a way of organizing files and folders on a computer or server. It resembles a tree, where the root directory is at the top, and branches represent subdirectories and files. This hierarchy helps users easily locate and manage their data by categorizing it into logical groups. In a typical directory structure, each folder can contain files or other subdirectories, allowing for a clear organization. For example, a documents folder might contain subfolders for work, personal, and projects, making it simpler to find specific files when needed.