The backup tool displays all parameters of the back up job on the final screen.You may want to exclude the download folder for instance, or any other folder that you don't require that is under the home directory. This depends largely on how you are using your computer. You may exclude files from being backed up on the next screen.You may save a bit of storage space if you select an archive format under output. It is usually not required though as everything is set up just fine. You may want to add a description for the backup, and modify the settings there as you see fit. It is recommended to use an external storage device, or a second hard drive for it. Select a destination directory for the backup.

You may need to click on 'other' to select it.

Select your home directory as the source.

Select Backup files in the next step, and configure the process. This works even if the language of the Linux Mint installation is not English. Note that you can also type Backup Tool and select it this way. To back up, select Menu > Administration > Backup Tool.

How to install linux mint 18.1