how to put icon on desktop windows 10
Adding icons to your Windows 10 desktop is a simple process that can help you quickly access your favorite applications, files, and folders. Here’s a quick guide: right-click the desktop, select "Personalize," go to "Themes" and then "Desktop icon settings" to choose system icons, or simply drag and drop shortcuts from the Start menu or File Explorer to the desktop.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Put Icon on Desktop Windows 10
In this section, we will walk through the steps to add an icon to your Windows 10 desktop. Whether it’s a system icon like This PC or a shortcut to your favorite game, these steps will help you get it done.
Step 1: Open Desktop Icon Settings
Right-click on your desktop and select "Personalize."
When you right-click on your desktop, a context menu will appear. Selecting "Personalize" will open the Settings app where you can tweak various appearance settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Themes
In the Settings app, go to "Themes" on the left sidebar.
Once inside the Settings app, the sidebar on the left will guide you. Click on "Themes" to access theme-specific settings, including desktop icons.
Step 3: Click on Desktop Icon Settings
Under "Related Settings," click on "Desktop icon settings."
Within the Themes tab, find the "Related Settings" section and click "Desktop icon settings." This will open a new window where you can enable specific system icons.
Step 4: Choose Your Icons
Check the boxes next to the icons you want to appear on your desktop.
In the Desktop Icon Settings window, you can check boxes next to system icons like This PC, Recycle Bin, Network, and others. Click "Apply" once you’ve made your selections.
Step 5: Add Custom Shortcuts
Drag and drop shortcuts from the Start menu or File Explorer to your desktop.
For custom icons, simply open the Start menu or File Explorer, find the app, file, or folder you want, and drag it to your desktop. This creates a shortcut for easy access.
After completing these actions, you’ll see the selected system icons or custom shortcuts appear on your desktop, providing quick access to your favorite tools and files.
Tips for How to Put Icon on Desktop Windows 10
- Pin to Desktop from Start Menu: For apps listed in the Start menu, right-click the app, select "More," and then click "Open file location." From there, you can copy and paste the shortcut to your desktop.
- Use File Explorer: Navigate through your frequently used folders and drag items you often access to the desktop.
- Rename Shortcuts: Right-click the new desktop icon and select "Rename" to give it a more descriptive name.
- Arrange Icons: Right-click on the desktop, go to "View," and use the options to auto-arrange, align to grid, or change icon size.
- Backup Shortcuts: Save shortcuts in a folder in case you need to restore them later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove an icon from the desktop?
Right-click the icon and select "Delete."
Deleting a shortcut from the desktop does not uninstall the application; it simply removes the shortcut.
Can I change the icon image?
Yes, right-click the icon, select "Properties," and then "Change Icon."
You can customize your desktop icons by choosing from a list of available icons or uploading your own.
Why aren’t my desktop icons showing up?
Right-click the desktop, go to "View," and ensure "Show desktop icons" is checked.
If your icons are missing, this setting may be unchecked. Checking it will display all your desktop icons.
How do I create a shortcut for a file or folder?
Right-click the file or folder, select "Send to," and then click "Desktop (create shortcut)."
This option quickly creates a shortcut on your desktop for easy access to the file or folder.
Can I move icons freely on the desktop?
Yes, click and drag the icon to your desired location.
You can place icons anywhere on your desktop grid, allowing for a personalized layout.
Summary of Steps
- Right-click on your desktop and select "Personalize."
- Go to "Themes" in the Settings app.
- Click on "Desktop icon settings."
- Check the boxes for the icons you want.
- Drag and drop shortcuts from the Start menu or File Explorer to your desktop.
Conclusion
Putting icons on your Windows 10 desktop is a quick and handy way to keep your most-used applications, files, and system settings within easy reach. Whether you’re adding system icons like This PC or custom shortcuts to your favorite games or documents, the steps outlined above will help you get your desktop organized in no time.
By following these steps, you won’t just save time but also reduce the clutter in your Start menu and taskbar. Now that you know how to put an icon on your desktop in Windows 10, why not give it a try? You’ll find it simplifies your daily tasks and makes your computing experience a breeze. If you have any more questions or need further instructions, don’t hesitate to seek out additional resources or community forums. 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.