How to Create Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
Creating a shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop is a quick and easy way to access your favorite files, applications, or websites. In just a few steps, you can make your desktop more organized and efficient, allowing you to open your frequently-used items with a simple double-click.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Create Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
In this tutorial, we’ll walk through the process of creating a desktop shortcut in Windows 10. Follow these simple steps to get started.
Step 1: Right-Click on Desktop
Right-click on an empty space on your desktop.
When you right-click, a context menu will appear. This menu contains several options that allow you to customize your desktop. Finding an empty area ensures you don’t accidentally interact with existing icons.
Step 2: Select "New" and then "Shortcut"
Hover over "New" in the context menu, then click "Shortcut."
The "New" option in the menu leads to a sub-menu with more choices. "Shortcut" is the option you want, and clicking it will open a wizard to help you create your new shortcut.
Step 3: Enter the Location of the Item
Type the path of the file, application, or website you want to create a shortcut for, and click "Next."
You need to know the exact location or URL of the item you want to shortcut. If it’s a file or application, you can often find this information by right-clicking the item, selecting "Properties," and copying the location from the "Target" field.
Step 4: Name Your Shortcut
Enter a name for your shortcut and click "Finish."
Choose a name that you’ll easily recognize, like "My Favorite Game" or "Work Folder." Naming it something intuitive ensures you immediately know what it is when you see the icon.
Step 5: Verify the Shortcut
Check your desktop to ensure the shortcut appears and functions correctly.
After completing the wizard, the new shortcut should appear on your desktop. Double-click it to verify it opens the correct file, application, or website.
After you complete these steps, you’ll have a new shortcut on your desktop that allows you to access your chosen item quickly and easily.
Tips on How to Create Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
- Drag and Drop: You can create shortcuts by dragging and dropping files or applications from File Explorer to the desktop while holding down the Alt key.
- Use Shortcuts for Network Locations: You can create shortcuts for network drives or folders to streamline access to shared resources.
- Batch Create Shortcuts: If you have multiple items to shortcut, you can save time by creating them in one go using the right-click method.
- Customize Icons: Personalize your shortcuts by right-clicking the icon, selecting "Properties," and clicking "Change Icon."
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Assign keyboard shortcuts to your desktop icons by right-clicking them, selecting "Properties," and entering a key combination in the "Shortcut key" field.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Create Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
How do I delete a desktop shortcut?
Simply right-click the shortcut and select "Delete." This will remove the shortcut but won’t delete the original file or application.
Can I create a shortcut for a website?
Yes, type the website URL in the location field when prompted during the shortcut creation process.
How do I change the icon of a shortcut?
Right-click the shortcut, select "Properties," and click "Change Icon." You can then choose from existing icons or browse your own.
What if the shortcut doesn’t work?
Ensure the path or URL is correct. You may need to verify the item’s location or reinstall the application.
Can I move the shortcut to another folder?
Yes, you can drag the shortcut from your desktop to any folder. The shortcut will still function as intended.
Summary
- Right-click on Desktop.
- Select "New," then "Shortcut."
- Enter the Location of the Item, click "Next."
- Name Your Shortcut, click "Finish."
- Verify the Shortcut on the Desktop.
Conclusion
Creating a shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop is a straightforward task that can significantly enhance your productivity. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your most-used applications, files, and websites are just a double-click away. This process not only helps in organizing your desktop but also saves you precious time navigating through folders or menus.
So, go ahead and start creating shortcuts for your favorite items. If you found this guide on how to create shortcut on desktop Windows 10 helpful, consider sharing it with friends or colleagues who might benefit as well. For more tips and tricks on optimizing your Windows experience, stay tuned for our upcoming articles!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.