Adding an app to your desktop in Windows 11 is a simple way to access your favorite applications quickly. By following a few straightforward steps, you can create a desktop shortcut that allows you to open an app with just one click. This guide will walk you through the process in detail, but here’s a quick overview: Find the app you want to add, right-click on it, and choose to create a shortcut on your desktop.
How to Add App to Desktop Windows 11
This section will guide you through creating a desktop shortcut for any app in Windows 11. Follow the steps below to achieve this.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Find the Start Menu by clicking on the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
The Start Menu is your gateway to accessing all the apps on your computer. From here, you can navigate to the app you want to add to your desktop.
Step 2: Locate the App
Scroll through the list of apps or use the search bar to find the app you wish to add to your desktop.
Once you find the app, you are just a few clicks away from creating a shortcut. Make sure you’re certain about the app you want to add.
Step 3: Right-Click on the App
Right-click on the app’s icon to see a context menu appear.
This menu will give you several options, including the one you need to create a desktop shortcut. Right-clicking is a common way to access additional options in Windows.
Step 4: Select “More” > “Open File Location”
Choose “More” from the context menu, then select “Open file location.”
This will take you to the location of the app’s executable file in File Explorer, which is necessary for the next step.
Step 5: Create a Shortcut
Right-click on the app’s executable file and select “Send to” > “Desktop (create shortcut).”
This action creates a shortcut on your desktop, allowing you to access the app directly from there. You should now see a new icon on your desktop.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a shortcut for the app on your desktop. Clicking on this shortcut will open the app just like it would if you opened it from the Start Menu or File Explorer.
Tips for How to Add App to Desktop Windows 11
- Use File Explorer: You can also directly navigate to the app’s installation folder in File Explorer and create a shortcut from there.
- Pin to Taskbar: If desktop shortcuts aren’t your thing, consider pinning the app to the taskbar for quick access.
- Organize Shortcuts: Group similar apps into folders on your desktop to keep things tidy.
- Custom Icons: Change the shortcuts’ icons for easier identification and a personalized look.
- Backup Shortcuts: If you frequently reinstall Windows, back up your shortcuts to avoid recreating them every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t find the app in the Start Menu?
If you can’t find the app in the Start Menu, use the search bar to locate it. Alternatively, navigate directly to the program’s installation folder in File Explorer.
Can I add Windows Store apps to the desktop?
Yes, you can. Follow the same steps to locate the app in the Start Menu, then create a shortcut.
Will deleting the shortcut uninstall the app?
No, deleting the shortcut will not uninstall the app. It just removes the shortcut from your desktop.
Can I add a shortcut for a website?
Yes, you can create a desktop shortcut for a website. Open the browser, navigate to the website, and drag the URL to your desktop.
How do I change the icon of the desktop shortcut?
Right-click the shortcut, select “Properties,” and click on the “Change Icon” button to choose a new icon.
Summary
- Step 1: Open the Start Menu
- Step 2: Locate the App
- Step 3: Right-Click on the App
- Step 4: Select “More” > “Open File Location”
- Step 5: Create a Shortcut
Conclusion
Adding an app to your desktop in Windows 11 is a super handy trick that can save you time and streamline your workflow. By creating shortcuts, you can quickly access your most-used applications without navigating through multiple menus.
Remember, organizing your desktop shortcuts can make a big difference in keeping your workspace clutter-free. And if you ever feel like giving your desktop a personalized touch, changing the shortcut icons is a fun option.
For more tips and tricks, explore other features of Windows 11 to further enhance your user experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Windows user or just getting started, mastering these simple tasks will make using your computer much smoother. So, why not give it a try and add an app to your desktop today? Happy computing!
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.