Moving apps to the desktop on Windows 11 is a handy way to keep your workspace organized and your favorite programs within easy reach. In just a few simple steps, you can access your most-used apps right from the desktop. This guide will walk you through how to move apps to the desktop on Windows 11, simplifying your user experience and helping you work more efficiently.
How to Move Apps to Desktop Windows 11
Moving apps to your Windows 11 desktop will make them easier to find and use. The steps below will guide you through this process quickly and efficiently.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Start button, typically found at the bottom-left corner of your screen, to open the Start Menu.
The Start Menu is your gateway to all the apps installed on your computer. Here, you’ll find a list of all available apps, making it a breeze to choose the one you want to move to the desktop.
Step 2: Locate the App
In the Start Menu, scroll through the list of apps or use the search bar to find the app you want to move.
Finding your app quickly is important. If you have a lot of apps, the search bar can be your best friend. By typing the app’s name, you can locate it in seconds.
Step 3: Right-Click the App
Once you’ve found the app, right-click on its icon.
Right-clicking the app gives you a menu of options. It’s like opening a toolbox full of different tools you can use to manage your app.
Step 4: Select “Show More Options”
From the right-click menu, choose “Show More Options” to expand your choices.
Selecting this option ensures you can see all available actions you can take with the app, including moving it to the desktop.
Step 5: Click “Send to” and Choose “Desktop (create shortcut)”
In the expanded menu, hover over “Send to” and then click “Desktop (create shortcut)”.
By selecting this option, you create a shortcut on your desktop. The desktop shortcut is a quick link to your app, making it easily accessible.
Once you complete these steps, the app will appear on your desktop as a shortcut icon. Now, you can open the app directly from your desktop without having to search through the Start Menu every time.
Tips for Moving Apps to Desktop Windows 11
- Organize with Folders: Group similar app shortcuts into folders on your desktop to keep things tidy.
- Rename Shortcuts: Right-click the shortcut to rename it for easier identification.
- Remove Unused Shortcuts: Regularly remove shortcuts you no longer use to prevent clutter.
- Use Snap Layouts: Snap Layouts in Windows 11 can help you organize open windows alongside desktop shortcuts for better multitasking.
- Backup Settings: Consider backing up your desktop shortcuts and settings in case of system changes or resets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove a shortcut from the desktop?
To remove a shortcut, just right-click the icon and select “Delete.” This removes the shortcut without uninstalling the app.
Can I move multiple apps at once?
Currently, you must create shortcuts for each app individually. There’s no bulk move option.
What if I can’t find the app in the Start Menu?
Try searching for the app in the search bar. If it’s not there, it might need to be installed or isn’t available on your device.
Does removing the shortcut uninstall the app?
No, removing the shortcut only deletes the icon from the desktop, not the app.
Can I change the shortcut icon?
Yes, right-click the shortcut, select “Properties,” then “Change Icon” to pick a different icon.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Locate the app.
- Right-click the app.
- Select “Show More Options.”
- Choose “Send to” and then “Desktop (create shortcut).”
Conclusion
Moving apps to the desktop on Windows 11 can significantly boost your productivity by keeping important applications just a click away. This process is simple and efficient, allowing you to customize your workspace to suit your needs better. Whether you’re a student juggling multiple assignments or a professional managing various projects, having quick access to your tools is crucial. Plus, organizing your shortcuts and using features like Snap Layouts can streamline your tasks even further.
Remember, keeping your desktop organized can prevent it from becoming cluttered, which can, in turn, slow down your computer. Regular maintenance of your desktop shortcuts and understanding how to efficiently manage them could save you a ton of time in the long run.
If you found this guide on how to move apps to desktop Windows 11 helpful, consider sharing it with friends or colleagues who might also benefit. For more tips and tutorials, keep exploring our site to make the most out of your technology.
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.