Putting apps on your Windows 11 home screen is a breeze. First, you’ll find the app you want in the Start menu or search bar. Right-click it, then select “Pin to Start” to make it accessible from your Start menu. If you want it on your desktop, select “Open file location,” then drag the shortcut to the desktop. That’s it! You’ve now got a shortcut for quick access.
How to Put Apps on Home Screen Windows 11
Want to make your Windows 11 experience smoother? Adding apps to your home screen is the way to go. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click on the Windows icon at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Inside the Start menu, you’ll see a list of programs and apps. This menu is your gateway to all installed applications.
Step 2: Find Your App
Scroll or use the search bar to locate the app you want.
Typing the app’s name in the search bar can speed up the process. Once you see it, you’re just a few clicks away from pinning it.
Step 3: Right-Click the App
Right-click on the app you want to pin.
A menu will pop up with several options. This is where you can choose what to do with the app next.
Step 4: Pin to Start
Select “Pin to Start” from the menu.
Choosing this option will place the app on your Start menu, making it easily accessible whenever you need it.
Step 5: Drag to Desktop
If desired, select “Open file location” and drag the shortcut to your desktop.
This creates a direct shortcut on your desktop, so you can open the app without navigating through menus.
After completing these steps, your chosen app will either appear in your Start menu, on your desktop, or both, depending on your preference. Easy access means less time searching and more time using your favorite applications.
Tips for Putting Apps on Home Screen Windows 11
- Group similar apps in your Start menu to keep everything organized.
- Use folders in the Start menu for a cleaner look.
- Regularly update your apps for the best performance.
- Remove unused apps from the Start menu to reduce clutter.
- Customize your Start menu layout in Settings for a personalized touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove an app from the Start menu?
Right-click on the app in the Start menu and select “Unpin from Start.”
This will remove the app from your Start menu, but it won’t uninstall it.
Can I pin apps to the taskbar as well?
Yes, right-click the app and select “Pin to taskbar.”
Pinning to the taskbar provides quick access from the bottom of your screen.
Is it possible to create app groups in the Start menu?
Yes, drag one app over another to create a group.
You can then add more apps to this group for better organization.
What if I don’t see “Open file location”?
Some apps from the Microsoft Store might not have this option.
In these cases, you’ll need to pin them directly from the Start menu or taskbar.
How do I unpin an app from the desktop?
Right-click the desktop shortcut and select “Delete.”
This only removes the shortcut, not the app itself.
Summary
- Open Start Menu.
- Find Your App.
- Right-Click the App.
- Pin to Start.
- Drag to Desktop.
Conclusion
Now you know how to put apps on your home screen in Windows 11, making your digital life a little more convenient. Whether you’re launching your favorite game, opening an important work tool, or just exploring new applications, having them right at your fingertips saves time.
Windows 11 offers a fresh and intuitive interface, and mastering these small tasks can significantly improve your overall experience. Remember, keeping your home screen organized not only boosts efficiency but also adds a personal touch to your device.
Want to learn more about optimizing your Windows 11 setup? Consider exploring custom backgrounds, widgets, and other personalization features that make your PC truly yours. Feel free to share these tips with friends or family who might appreciate a smoother computing experience. 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.