If you want to move an app from the taskbar to your desktop in Windows 11, it’s pretty straightforward. Just unpin the app from the taskbar and create a desktop shortcut for it.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it done swiftly!
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Moving Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11
Want your favorite apps on your desktop instead of the taskbar? Follow these steps to make it happen.
Step 1: Right-click the App on the Taskbar
First, locate the app you want to move on the taskbar and right-click it.
Right-clicking the app will bring up a context menu. This menu offers several options, including unpinning the app from the taskbar.
Step 2: Select “Unpin from taskbar”
Next, click on the “Unpin from taskbar” option in the context menu.
This action will remove the app from the taskbar, but don’t worry; the app isn’t deleted. You can still access it from the Start menu or other locations.
Step 3: Open the Start Menu
Click on the Start button in the lower-left corner of the screen to open the Start menu.
The Start menu is where you can find all your installed apps. It’s your go-to place for app management in Windows 11.
Step 4: Find the App in the Start Menu
Scroll through the list of apps or use the search bar to find the app you just unpinned.
Once you locate the app, get ready to create a desktop shortcut for it.
Step 5: Right-click the App and Select “Open file location”
Right-click on the app name, and from the dropdown, choose “Open file location.”
This will bring up the File Explorer with the app’s shortcut file highlighted. This file is what you need to create a desktop shortcut.
Step 6: Create Shortcut on Desktop
Right-click the app’s shortcut file in File Explorer, then select “Send to” and “Desktop (create shortcut)”.
This action will place a shortcut for the app directly on your desktop, making it easily accessible.
After completing these steps, your app will appear on the desktop, just like it used to be on the taskbar. You’ll have easy access to it without the clutter of the taskbar.
Tips for Moving Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11
- Ensure the app is not running before you unpin it to avoid any glitches.
- You can also drag and drop apps from the Start menu to the desktop for a quicker shortcut creation.
- Use the search feature in the Start menu to quickly locate your app.
- Remember, you can re-pin the app to the taskbar anytime if you change your mind.
- To keep your desktop tidy, consider organizing your shortcuts into folders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move system apps from the taskbar to the desktop?
Yes, you can move system apps in the same way you move regular apps by following the steps above.
What if I accidentally delete the desktop shortcut?
Don’t worry! You can always create a new shortcut by finding the app in the Start menu and repeating the steps.
Will unpinning from the taskbar uninstall the app?
No, unpinning the app from the taskbar does not uninstall it; it just removes the shortcut from the taskbar.
Can I still access the app after moving it to the desktop?
Yes, the app remains fully accessible. You can open it from the desktop shortcut you created.
Can I organize desktop shortcuts into folders?
Absolutely! You can create folders on your desktop and drag and drop shortcuts into them for better organization.
Summary
- Right-click the app on the taskbar.
- Select “Unpin from taskbar.”
- Open the Start Menu.
- Find the app in the Start menu.
- Right-click the app and select “Open file location.”
- Create a shortcut on the desktop.
Conclusion
Moving apps from the taskbar to the desktop in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to personalize your workspace. By following these straightforward steps, you can declutter your taskbar and have all your essential apps just a double-click away on your desktop. This method not only keeps your taskbar clean but also gives you quick access to the apps you use most frequently.
For further customization, consider organizing your desktop shortcuts into folders. This can greatly enhance your productivity by keeping everything neatly arranged.
If you found this guide helpful, why not explore other tips and tricks for organizing your Windows 11 environment? Remember, a well-organized workspace can make your computing experience more enjoyable and efficient. Happy organizing!
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.