Adding an app to your Windows 11 desktop is incredibly simple. All you need to do is find the app you want to add, right-click on it, and select the option to create a shortcut. Presto! You’ve got your app right on your desktop, ready for easy access.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Add an App to Desktop Windows 11
In this section, we will walk you through the straightforward steps to add an app to your Windows 11 desktop. We’ll keep it simple and quick, so you can start enjoying your new desktop setup in no time.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
The first step is to open the Start Menu by clicking on the Windows icon at the bottom left corner of your screen.
Opening the Start Menu gives you access to all the apps installed on your computer. It’s like a hub where you can find everything you need.
Step 2: Find the App
The second step is to locate the app you wish to add to your desktop in the Start Menu or search for it using the search bar at the top.
Once you’ve found the app, make sure it’s the right one. Double-checking is always a good idea to avoid mistakes.
Step 3: Right-Click the App
The third step is to right-click on the app.
When you right-click, a context menu will appear with several options. This is where you’ll find the option to create a shortcut.
Step 4: Select ‘Open file location’
The fourth step is to click the ‘Open file location’ option from the context menu.
This will take you to the location where the app’s executable file is stored. It’s like finding the heart of the app.
Step 5: Create Shortcut
The fifth step is to right-click the app’s executable file and select ‘Send to’ followed by ‘Desktop (create shortcut)’.
This action will create a shortcut of the app on your desktop, making it easily accessible whenever you need it.
After you complete these steps, you will see the app’s icon on your desktop. You can now open the app directly from there without having to go through the Start Menu.
Tips for Adding an App to Desktop Windows 11
Here are some extra tips to help you out with adding apps to your Windows 11 desktop:
- Pin to Taskbar: Instead of a desktop shortcut, you can also pin the app to your taskbar for even quicker access.
- Rename Shortcuts: After creating the shortcut, you can right-click on it and rename it for easier identification.
- Organize Your Desktop: Keep your desktop clutter-free by organizing your shortcuts into folders.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Use Windows + D to quickly show and hide your desktop.
- Backup Shortcuts: If you frequently reset or reinstall Windows, keep a backup of your important shortcuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add any app to the desktop?
Yes, you can add any app that you can find in your Start Menu to the desktop.
What if the ‘Open file location’ option is not available?
If the ‘Open file location’ option is not available, it means the app is a modern app from Microsoft Store and you’ll need to use a different method, like creating a manual shortcut.
Can I remove the shortcut later?
Absolutely! Just right-click the shortcut and select ‘Delete’. It won’t uninstall the app.
Do shortcuts affect system performance?
Shortcuts themselves do not impact system performance. They are merely links to the actual apps.
Can I change the icon of the shortcut?
Yes, right-click on the shortcut, go to ‘Properties,’ and click ‘Change Icon’ to select a different one.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Find the App.
- Right-Click the App.
- Select ‘Open file location’.
- Create Shortcut.
Conclusion
Adding an app to your desktop in Windows 11 is a quick and effortless task that can significantly improve your workflow. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can keep your most-used apps within easy reach, saving you time and effort. Whether you’re new to Windows 11 or an experienced user, this little trick can make a big difference. If you found this guide helpful, why not explore more Windows 11 features to further enhance your computing experience? Happy shortcutting!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.