When you want to move apps from the taskbar to the desktop in Windows 11, it’s essentially about creating shortcuts that you can easily access. You’ll be creating a more organized workspace with quick access to your favorite applications. Here’s a quick rundown: right-click the app on the taskbar, navigate to the app’s file location, and then drag or copy it to your desktop. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s go!
How to Move Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to move apps from your Windows 11 taskbar to your desktop. This will help you access your favorite apps directly from your desktop rather than through the taskbar.
Step 1: Right-click the app on the taskbar
Locate and right-click the desired application icon on your taskbar.
When you right-click the app, a context menu will appear. This is your gateway to finding the app’s location on your computer.
Step 2: Click on "More" and then "Open file location"
In the context menu, hover over "More" and then click "Open file location."
This action will lead you to the File Explorer window, where the app’s shortcut or executable file is stored. This step is crucial as it reveals where the application actually resides.
Step 3: Right-click the app’s file icon in File Explorer
In the File Explorer window, right-click the app’s file icon you just located.
Here, you can choose to create a shortcut right on your desktop. Right-clicking will provide a few options; we’ll guide you through the best one.
Step 4: Select "Create shortcut" from the context menu
From the context menu, select "Create shortcut."
This will create a shortcut file of the application on your desktop. You can drag this shortcut to wherever you’d like on your desktop for easy access.
Step 5: Double-check your desktop
Look for the new shortcut on your desktop.
It should be there, ready to be used. If it is, you’ve successfully completed the process. If it’s not, you might need to repeat the steps to ensure everything was done correctly.
After completing these steps, you’ll find the app’s shortcut on your desktop. You can now access the app directly from there, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.
Tips for Moving Apps from Taskbar to Desktop in Windows 11
- Customize your shortcuts: Rename your shortcuts to something easier to recognize.
- Organize by importance: Place more frequently used apps in easily accessible spots on your desktop.
- Use folders: If you have multiple apps, consider grouping them into desktop folders for a clutter-free workspace.
- Backup shortcuts: Keep a backup of your shortcuts in case you need to reset your desktop.
- Regularly update shortcuts: Ensure your shortcuts are linked to the latest versions of the apps by periodically checking their file locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I move apps from the taskbar to the desktop?
Moving apps to the desktop can make them more accessible if you have a cluttered taskbar or if you prefer a desktop-centric workflow.
Can I move any app from the taskbar to the desktop?
Most apps can be moved, but some system apps or those without a traditional installation may not support this feature.
What if "Open file location" is not available?
If "Open file location" is greyed out or not available, it may be a system app or a special type of shortcut that doesn’t have a direct file location.
Will moving the app to the desktop remove it from the taskbar?
No, creating a shortcut on the desktop will not remove the app from the taskbar. The app will be accessible from both locations.
Is this process reversible?
Yes, simply delete the shortcut from your desktop to remove it. The app will remain on the taskbar unless you remove it manually.
Summary
- Right-click the app on the taskbar.
- Click on "More" and then "Open file location."
- Right-click the app’s file icon in File Explorer.
- Select "Create shortcut" from the context menu.
- Double-check your desktop.
Conclusion
Moving apps from the taskbar to the desktop in Windows 11 is a handy trick to streamline your workflow and keep your favorite applications a click away. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily create shortcuts on your desktop, making it more functional and organized. Whether you’re a power user looking to optimize your workspace or just someone who likes having quick access to frequently used apps, this method is sure to enhance your Windows 11 experience.
For further reading, you might want to explore how to customize your desktop icons and taskbar settings in Windows 11. These small tweaks can make a big difference in how you interact with your computer daily. So, go ahead and make your desktop your own!
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.