How to Create Shortcuts on the Desktop in Windows 11

Introduction

Windows 11, Microsoft’s latest operating system, introduces a fresh and modern look, making it a user-friendly platform for various tasks. Creating shortcuts on the desktop remains an essential feature, allowing you to easily access your frequently used applications, files, or folders. In this guide, we will walk you through the simple steps to create shortcuts on your Windows 11 desktop.

Method 1: Using the Right-Click Menu

The most straightforward method for creating shortcuts on your Windows 11 desktop is by using the right-click menu. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate the item: First, find the application, file, or folder for which you want to create a shortcut. It can be located in the Start menu, on your taskbar, or within File Explorer.
2. Right-click the item: Right-click on the item you want to create a shortcut for. A context menu will appear.
3. Select ‘Create shortcut’: In the context menu, hover your mouse over “More” and then click on “Create shortcut.” This will create a shortcut to the selected item on your desktop.

Method 2: Using the Desktop Context Menu

You can also create shortcuts directly from your desktop using the context menu. Here’s how:

1. Right-click on the desktop: Find an empty area on your desktop and right-click to open the context menu.
2. Hover over ‘New’: In the context menu, hover your mouse over the “New” option.
3. Select ‘Shortcut’: Click on “Shortcut” from the submenu. This action will open a wizard to create a new shortcut.
4. Browse and choose the item: The wizard will ask you to browse for the item you want to create a shortcut for. Browse to the location of the application, file, or folder and select it.
5. Name the shortcut: After selecting the item, you’ll be asked to provide a name for your shortcut. You can keep the default name or enter a custom one.
6. Finish: Click “Finish” to create the shortcut on your desktop.

Method 3: Using Drag-and-Drop

Creating shortcuts on the desktop can also be done using the drag-and-drop method:

1. Open File Explorer: Launch File Explorer by pressing the Windows key and ‘E’ simultaneously or by clicking on the File Explorer icon on your taskbar.
2. Find the item: Navigate to the location of the application, file, or folder you want to create a shortcut for.
3. Drag the item: Left-click and hold the item, then drag it to your desktop.
4. Release the mouse button: Once you’re on the desktop, release the mouse button to drop the shortcut. A shortcut to the item will appear on the desktop.

Conclusion

Creating shortcuts on the desktop in Windows 11 is a simple and efficient way to access your frequently used items with ease. You can use the right-click menu, the desktop context menu, or the drag-and-drop method to create these shortcuts. By doing so, you can streamline your workflow and have quick access to your most important applications, files, and folders.