WARNING! Master resetting your smartphone will result in the deletion of all data stored on the phone's internal memory. This includes custom ringtones, downloaded content, photos, applications etc. However, data stored on the SIM and SD card will not be affected

NOTE: To learn how you can back up the data stored on your Samsung Galaxy V, follow this link. For a guide on restoring the data, visit this thread instead.

Master Resetting using the Settings Menu:

1. Tap "Menu" while viewing the home screen
2. Go to "Settings" and tap the "Accounts" tab
3. Tap "Backup and reset"
4. Optionally, clear the check boxes associated with "Automatic restore" and "Back up my data"
5. Tap "Factory data reset" > "Reset device"
6. In case your phone is protected by a PIN or password, enter it and tap "Continue"
7. Lastly, tap "Delete all" to confirm and reset your phone

Master Resetting using Hardware Keys (Recovery Menu):

NOTE: Use this method of factory reset assuming that the method above (via Settings menu) is not feasible. In case your phone crashes, freezes or otherwise prevents you from accessing the settings menu and complete the operation, you can reset your phone by fist accessing the recovery menu using a combination of hardware keys. To do so:

1. Turn off your smartphone
2. Press and hold the "Volume Up", "Home" and "Power" buttons at the same time
3. After the phone vibrates, release the "Power" button but continue to hold the other two keys
4. At the "Android System Recovery" screen, release all hardware buttons
5. From the recovery menu, press "Volume down" to navigate to and highlight "wipe data / factory reset"
6. Press "Power" to select the highlighted option
7. Press "Volume down" to highlight "delete all user data"
8. Press "Power" to select the option, and wait for the phone to apply the master reset
9. Once the phone is reset, "Reboot system now" will be highlighted
10. Press "Power' to reboot your phone

Check for Software Updates:

NOTE: After you factory reset your phone you may lose certain updates that have been applied in the past. It's recommended that you check for updates as soon as you reboot your phone after a fresh reset. To do so:

1. Press "Menu" while on the home screen
2. Tap "Settings" and access the "More" tab
3. Tap "About device" > "Software update"
4. Connect to a Wi-Fi network if necessary
5. Assuming that an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it