Creating a shortcut for an app on your Windows 10 desktop is easier than you might think. You can quickly access your favorite programs by following a few simple steps. Whether it’s a game, a productivity tool, or a social media app, you can have it right there on your desktop with just a few clicks.
Step-by-Step Tutorial for Creating App Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through each step to create a desktop shortcut for any application installed on your Windows 10 PC. These steps will ensure you always have quick access to your favorite software.
Step 1: Find the Application
Locate the app you want to create a shortcut for in the Start Menu.
First, click on the Start Menu button at the bottom-left corner of your screen. This will open up a list of all your installed apps. If you can’t find the app immediately, use the search bar at the top of the Start Menu to type in the name of the app.
Step 2: Right-Click on the Application
Right-click on the app’s icon.
After finding the app, right-click on its icon. This will open a context menu with several options. You’ll need to select the right one to proceed.
Step 3: Select "Open File Location"
Choose "Open file location" from the context menu.
When you right-click on the app, look for "More" in the context menu, which will give you additional options. Click on "Open file location." This action will open the File Explorer window, showing where the app’s executable file is stored.
Step 4: Create Shortcut
Right-click on the executable file and choose "Create shortcut."
In the File Explorer window, find the app’s .exe file. Right-click on this file and select "Create shortcut." Windows will place a shortcut in the same directory by default.
Step 5: Move the Shortcut to Desktop
Drag the newly created shortcut to your desktop.
Now, simply click and drag the shortcut file from the File Explorer window to your desktop. Alternatively, you can right-click the shortcut and choose "Send to" followed by "Desktop (create shortcut)."
Once you’ve followed these steps, the shortcut to the application will appear on your desktop. You can double-click this shortcut anytime you want to open the app quickly.
Tips for Creating App Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
- Rename the Shortcut: Right-click the shortcut and select "Rename" to give it a more descriptive name.
- Change Icon: Right-click the shortcut, go to "Properties," then "Shortcut" tab, and click "Change Icon" to customize its appearance.
- Organize Your Desktop: Consider grouping related shortcuts into folders to keep your desktop tidy.
- Pin to Taskbar: If you use the app frequently, right-click the shortcut and choose "Pin to taskbar" for even quicker access.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Assign a keyboard shortcut to the app by right-clicking the shortcut, going to "Properties," and setting a key combo in the "Shortcut key" field.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creating App Shortcut on Desktop Windows 10
Can I create a shortcut for any type of file?
Yes, you can create a shortcut for any file, folder, or application by following the same steps.
What do I do if there’s no "Open file location" option?
If "Open file location" isn’t available, try searching for the executable file directly in File Explorer and then create a shortcut from there.
Can I delete the original executable file after creating the shortcut?
No, the shortcut depends on the original executable file to function. Deleting it will make the shortcut useless.
How do I remove a desktop shortcut?
Simply right-click the shortcut on your desktop and select "Delete." This won’t remove the actual application, just the shortcut.
Is it possible to create a shortcut to a website?
Yes, open your web browser, go to the website, drag the icon in the address bar to your desktop, and a shortcut will be created.
Summary
- Find the Application.
- Right-Click on the Application.
- Select "Open File Location."
- Create Shortcut.
- Move the Shortcut to Desktop.
Conclusion
Creating app shortcuts on your Windows 10 desktop is a straightforward process that can save you time and improve your workflow. Whether you’re a student needing quick access to educational tools or a gamer wanting to jump into your favorite titles, having shortcuts on your desktop ensures everything is just a double-click away. Follow the simple steps outlined above to make your desktop work for you. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.