Is there a file in Google Docs that you want to make more accessible? While you can create bookmarks in your Web browser that give you a quick way to access the document, you may be looking for a way to create a clickable shortcut on your Windows 10 desktop instead.
By creating a desktop shortcut to your Google Docs document you can simply double-click the desktop icon to open the document in your default Web browser. For documents that you need to edit on a regular basis, this can be very convenient. Our guide below will show you how to set it up.
Additional reading
- How to change margins in Google Docs
- How to select all in Google Docs
- How to clear formatting in Google Docs
- How to change a link in Google Docs
- How to make Google Docs landscape
How to Create a Google Docs File Shortcut on Your Windows 10 Desktop
The steps in this article were performed in the Google Chrome desktop Web browser, in a computer using Windows 10. Note that the desktop shortcut you create using this method will open automatically in whatever Web browser is currently the default on your computer.
Additionally, you will need to be signed into your Google Account in your default Web browser for the file to open automatically. Otherwise you will be prompted to sign into the account after double-clicking the desktop shortcut.
Step 1: Open your Web browser.
Step 2: Go to your Google Drive at https://drive.google.com and double-click the Google Docs file for which you wish to create the desktop shortcut.
Step 3: Click inside the address bar at the top of the browser window, select the entire Web page address, then either press Ctrl + C or right-click on the address and choose the Copy option.
Step 4: Go to your Windows desktop, right-click in an empty space, choose New, then click Shortcut.
Step 5: Click inside the field under Type the location of the item, then press Ctrl + V on your keyboard to paste the copied link. Click the Next button when finished.
Step 6: Enter a name for the shortcut, then click the Finish button.
You should now have an icon on your desktop that, when double-clicked, will open your Google Docs file in your default Web browser.
Find out how to switch your Google Docs file to landscape if you need to work with the file in that orientation rather than the default portrait option.
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.