A shortcut is an icon on the desktop that links to a program or file on your computer. It provides access to designated programs, offering instant access and saving valuable time during your workday.
When installing or setting up a new application, Windows gives you the option to create a shortcut for it. However, if you choose not to do so at the time, you can always go back and set it up at your convenience.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a shortcut for an application, a file, or a website. As Windows 10 end of life is nearing, this article will only focus on Windows 11.
Table of contents
- Create a desktop shortcut for a program
- Create a new desktop shortcut for a document or file
- Create a desktop shortcut for a website on Microsoft Edge
- Conclusion
Create a desktop shortcut for a program
- Click the Windows key on the left side of your taskbar.
- Click 'All' to view all installed programs on your computer and scroll down to look for the application you want to create a shortcut for. Avoid using the Search bar, as a shortcut cannot be created from those icons.
- Once you find the application on the list (scroll down to see more), drag the app icon to your desktop.
- The shortcut for that application will appear on your desktop.
Create a desktop shortcut for a document or file
Using File Explorer
- Using File Explorer, go to the location of your file or document.
- Right-click on the file name, then click ‘Show more options.’
- Click 'Create shortcut' at the bottom of the menu; the shortcut will then be visible on your desktop.
Using the desktop menu
- Right-click anywhere on your desktop to see the desktop menu.
- Hover over 'New', and you’ll see a drop-down list of options.
- Choose 'Shortcut' and a window will pop up asking for the item you would like to create a shortcut for.
- Click on 'Browse' and locate the file or document. Once it is located, click on the file name, then click 'OK.'
- Click 'Next' and type in the name of the shortcut; this will not change the original file’s name.
- Lastly, click 'Finish' and you can access the file through your desktop now.
Create a desktop shortcut for a website on Microsoft Edge
- Open the Microsoft Edge browser and go to the web page you want to create a shortcut for.
- Click on … at the top right of the browser and hover over the ‘Apps’ option.
- Click ‘Install this site as an app.’
- A window will appear; here, you can name the shortcut by typing in the text box. Click ‘Install.’
- An ‘App installed’ window will pop up to let you know it has been successfully installed. Tick ‘Create Desktop shortcut’ then click ‘Allow’ to have the webpage shortcut on your desktop.
Conclusion
Having a desktop for your frequently used apps, files, or webpages is a quick and easy way to save time and boost your productivity in your daily work.
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