Shortcuts put your favourite apps, folders, files, and websites one double-click away on the Windows 11 desktop. You can make one from the desktop menu, drag an app from Start, or send a file to the desktop.
Quick Answer
Right-click an empty area of the desktop, choose New, then Shortcut, browse to or type the item’s location, click Next, give it a name, and click Finish.
How to Make Shortcuts on Windows 11
- Right-click an empty part of the desktop and choose New, then Shortcut.
- Click Browse to pick a file or folder, or type a web address or program path.
- Click Next, type a name for the shortcut, and click Finish.
- For an app, open Start, choose All, and drag the app onto the desktop.
- For a file or folder, right-click it, choose Show more options, then Send to, Desktop (create shortcut).
Shortcut Types
| Shortcut to | Quickest way |
|---|---|
| Program | Drag from Start, All apps |
| File or folder | Send to, Desktop (create shortcut) |
| Website | New, Shortcut, and type the address |
| Settings page | New, Shortcut, and type an ms-settings address |
Related: Quick Launch Toolbar in Windows 11: Why It’s Gone and the Best Alternatives.
Related: How to Move Apps From the Taskbar to the Desktop in Windows 11.
Troubleshooting
- Desktop icons are missing: right-click the desktop, choose View, and turn on Show desktop icons.
- The shortcut stopped working: the original file moved. Delete the shortcut and create a new one.
- To change a shortcut’s icon, see how to change Windows icons.
- For more on desktop apps, read how to add apps to the desktop in Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does deleting a shortcut delete the program?
No. It only removes the link.
Can I add a keyboard shortcut to open it?
Yes. Right-click the shortcut, choose Properties, and set a Shortcut key.
How do I remove the arrow on shortcut icons?
That needs registry changes, which are not recommended for most users.
Summary
- Right-click the desktop.
- Choose New, Shortcut.
- Pick the item and name it.
- Or drag apps from Start.
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.