How To Create A Desktop Shortcut In Windows 11/10 (Quick Guide)

Home » How-To

Edgar Nicov

How-To

4 min. read

Updated on September 22, 2025

Fix Windows errors with Fortect:
Fortect can repair common computer errors by scanning your entire system for damaged or missing OS files and replacing them with the original, working versions. Optimize your PC in 3 simple steps:

Download and Install Fortect on your PC
Use the PC Scan feature to look up any Windows issues (including drivers)
Right-click on Repair, and fix it within a few minutes.

Besides that, it helps you clean up junk files, fix stability problems, and get rid of annoying programs and malware traces.

Creating a desktop shortcut in Windows 11 or 10 is a simple process that significantly improves your workflow by providing quick access to frequently used files, folders, or applications. This guide will walk you through the various methods, ensuring you can streamline your computing experience in minutes.

How Can I Quickly Access My Favorite Programs and Files?

Method 1: Dragging and Dropping from File Explorer

Locate the file or application: Open File Explorer and navigate to the file, folder, or application you want to create a shortcut for.
Right-click and drag: Right-click the item and hold down the left mouse button.
Drag to the desktop: Drag the item to your desktop. Release the mouse button. A shortcut will appear.

Method 2: Using the Right-Click Context Menu

Locate the target: Find the file, folder, or application you wish to shortcut.
Right-click: Right-click on the item.
Select "Send to": In the context menu, hover over "Send to."
Choose "Desktop (create shortcut)": Select "Desktop (create shortcut)" from the submenu. A shortcut will instantly appear on your desktop.

Method 3: Using the "Create Shortcut" Option

Right-click on the Desktop: Right-click on an empty space on your desktop.
Select "New": Choose "New" from the context menu.
Select "Shortcut": Click on "Shortcut."
Browse for the Target: A window will appear, prompting you to locate the file, folder, or application. Click "Browse…" and navigate to the target.
Type the Target Path: Alternatively, you can manually type the full path to the file, folder, or application into the "Type the location of the item" field.
Click "Next": After selecting or typing the path, click "Next."
Name the Shortcut: Give your shortcut a descriptive name. Click "Finish." Your shortcut will be created on your desktop.

Tips for Managing Your Desktop Shortcuts

Organize your shortcuts: Group similar shortcuts together to keep your desktop tidy. You can create folders on your desktop to organize shortcuts.
Rename shortcuts: Right-click a shortcut and select "Rename" to give it a more user-friendly name.
Delete shortcuts: Simply drag and drop shortcuts to the Recycle Bin to remove them. Deleting a shortcut does not delete the original file or application.

Streamlining Your Windows Experience

Creating desktop shortcuts is a fundamental skill for efficient Windows usage. Mastering these methods will empower you to personalize your workspace and boost your productivity.

FAQs

How do I change the icon of a desktop shortcut?

Right-click the shortcut, select "Properties," go to the "Shortcut" tab, and click "Change Icon." Browse for a new icon or select one from the list provided.

What happens if I delete a desktop shortcut?

Deleting a desktop shortcut only removes the shortcut itself; the original file, folder, or application remains unaffected and can still be accessed through other means.

Can I create shortcuts to websites?

Yes, you can create shortcuts to websites. In the "Create Shortcut" method, simply paste the website URL into the "Type the location of the item" field.

How can I pin a shortcut to the taskbar?

Right-click the shortcut on your desktop, then select "Pin to taskbar." This will add the shortcut to your taskbar for even quicker access.