Moving apps to the desktop in Windows 11 is a breeze once you know the steps. Simply find the app you want, drag it to the desktop or create a shortcut if needed. Use the Start menu, taskbar, or File Explorer to locate your app, then move it directly to your desktop for easy access. This guide will walk you through each step to make sure your favorite apps are just a click away on your desktop.
How to Move Apps to Desktop in Windows 11
Moving apps to your desktop in Windows 11 helps you access them quickly and keep your workspace organized. Follow these steps to achieve that:
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click on the Start button on the taskbar to open the Start menu.
Opening the Start menu will display all your installed applications. The Start menu is like a digital toolkit with all your apps neatly organized for easy access.
Step 2: Locate the App
Search for the app you want to move by typing its name in the search bar.
Use the search bar to quickly find the app you’re looking for. This feature saves you time, especially if you have many apps installed.
Step 3: Right-click the App
Once you find the app, right-click on it to open a context menu.
Right-clicking will reveal several options, including the ability to pin or create shortcuts. This menu is your gateway to customizing how you access your app.
Step 4: Select ‘Pin to Desktop’
Choose the option ‘Pin to Desktop’ or ‘Show more options,’ then ‘Create shortcut.’
These options allow you to either pin the app directly to the desktop or create a shortcut, either way, it lands the app icon on your desktop for easy access.
Step 5: Drag and Drop
Alternatively, you can click and drag the app icon directly from the Start menu or File Explorer to the desktop.
Dragging and dropping is a straightforward method that mimics the physical action, making it intuitive for anyone familiar with moving objects on the computer.
After completing these steps, your chosen app will be accessible directly from your desktop. This makes it convenient to open frequently used apps without navigating through layers of menus.
Tips for Moving Apps to Desktop in Windows 11
- If an app doesn’t appear in the Start menu, check under the ‘All Apps’ section for a comprehensive list.
- Use File Explorer to find apps installed in less common directories.
- Remember that not all apps can be pinned directly; creating a shortcut might be necessary.
- Pinning apps to the desktop can declutter your taskbar for a cleaner workspace.
- Regularly review your desktop to avoid cluttering it with too many apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I remove an app from the desktop?
Simply right-click the app icon on your desktop, and select ‘Delete’ to remove it.
Can all apps be moved to the desktop in Windows 11?
Not all apps can be directly pinned, but you can create a shortcut for most.
What if I can’t find the app in the Start menu?
Use the search bar, check the ‘All Apps’ section, or locate it using File Explorer.
How do I organize apps on my desktop?
You can manually drag them around or create folders by right-clicking and selecting ‘New Folder.’
Can I move web apps to the desktop?
Yes, most browsers offer an option to create desktop shortcuts for web apps.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Locate the App.
- Right-click the App.
- Select ‘Pin to Desktop.’
- Drag and Drop.
Conclusion
Moving apps to the desktop in Windows 11 is a simple but effective way to enhance your productivity. Once the app is on your desktop, it becomes as accessible as your morning coffee, right there when you need it. The steps we’ve outlined not only make this process easy but also enable you to personalize your workspace according to your needs.
Take a moment to organize your desktop after moving a few apps. Having too many icons can be overwhelming, like trying to find a needle in a haystack, so keep it tidy. Remember, your desktop is a reflection of your digital efficiency, and keeping it organized can make a significant difference in how quickly you can get things done.
If you enjoyed getting your desktop organized, why not explore other ways to improve your Windows 11 experience? Customizing your taskbar, exploring widgets, or even a deep dive into virtual desktops can transform your interaction with your computer. The possibilities are endless, and your journey to mastering Windows 11 has just begun.
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.