How to Move Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11: Easy Guide

Moving Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11

Need to move your apps from the taskbar to the desktop in Windows 11? It’s pretty simple! Right-click the app icon on the taskbar, select “Unpin from taskbar,” then drag and drop the app’s shortcut from the Start menu to the desktop. And just like that, your app is moved! Now, let’s dive into the details.

How to Move Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11

This guide will walk you through the steps to move an app from your taskbar to the desktop in Windows 11. This can help you declutter your taskbar and keep your desktop organized with the shortcuts you need.

Step 1: Right-Click the App on the Taskbar

Right-click on the app icon on your taskbar.

When you right-click on the app icon, a context menu will pop up. This menu provides several options, including the one you need to proceed.

Step 2: Select “Unpin from taskbar”

Choose the "Unpin from taskbar" option.

When you select “Unpin from taskbar,” the app icon will disappear from your taskbar. Don’t worry, the app isn’t deleted; it’s just no longer pinned to the taskbar.

Step 3: Open the Start Menu

Click on the Start menu button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.

The Start menu will open, displaying a list of your apps. You might need to search for the app you just unpinned.

Step 4: Find the App in the Start Menu

Locate the app you want to move to the desktop.

You can either scroll through the list or use the search bar at the top of the Start menu to find the app quickly.

Step 5: Drag and Drop the App to the Desktop

Click and drag the app icon from the Start menu to your desktop.

Simply click on the app icon and drag it to your desktop. Release the mouse button to drop the app shortcut on the desktop.

After completing these steps, your app will be conveniently placed on the desktop, making it easily accessible without cluttering your taskbar.

Tips for Moving Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11

  • Use Search Bar: If you have many apps, use the search bar in the Start menu to quickly find the app you want to move.
  • Create Shortcuts: Right-click the app in the Start menu, select “More,” then “Open file location” to create a shortcut directly.
  • Taskbar Management: Keep only the most frequently used apps on your taskbar for quick access.
  • Desktop Organization: Use folders on your desktop to group similar apps and keep things tidy.
  • Custom Icons: Personalize your desktop by changing the icons of the apps you move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move any app from the taskbar to the desktop?

Yes, you can move any app that’s pinned to the taskbar to the desktop by following the steps outlined above.

What happens if I delete a shortcut from the desktop?

Deleting a shortcut won’t uninstall the app. You can still access the app from the Start menu or by searching for it.

Can I pin apps back to the taskbar after moving them to the desktop?

Absolutely! Just right-click the app icon on the desktop and select “Pin to taskbar.”

Will this method work on previous versions of Windows?

The steps might vary slightly, but the overall process is similar in Windows 10. For older versions, the procedure may be different.

Is it possible to pin folders to the desktop as well?

Yes, you can pin folders to the desktop by dragging them from File Explorer to your desktop.

Summary

  1. Right-click the app on the taskbar.
  2. Select “Unpin from taskbar.”
  3. Open the Start menu.
  4. Find the app in the Start menu.
  5. Drag and drop the app to the desktop.

Conclusion

Moving apps from the taskbar to the desktop in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can help you keep your workspace neat and organized. By following the steps and tips provided, you can easily manage your apps and shortcuts, enhancing your overall productivity. Whether you’re looking to declutter your taskbar or simply prefer the convenience of having app shortcuts on your desktop, these methods will serve you well.

For those who enjoy customizing their computer setup, this small adjustment can make a big difference. It gives you the flexibility to arrange your workspace in a way that best suits your needs. Don’t forget to revisit and adjust your setup as your usage patterns evolve. Happy organizing!

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