How to Make a Desktop Shortcut on Windows 11? Easy Steps
A desktop shortcut acts as a direct link to an item stored somewhere on your computer. Instead of navigating through multiple folders or searching for a program in the Start menu, you can simply double-click the shortcut on your desktop to open it instantly.
Windows 11 users have several easy options to create shortcuts. You can create them from the Start menu, from File Explorer, or directly from the desktop. You can also create shortcuts for websites by using your browser.
Each methods are explained in this post! Let’s make your work easy by saving time!
Before starting, make sure you know the location of the app, file, or folder for which you want to create a shortcut. Once you know the location, creating the shortcut will only take a few seconds.
How to Make a Desktop Shortcut on Windows 11?
Creating a desktop shortcut on Windows 11 is a quick process that allows you to access apps, files, folders, or websites directly from your desktop. You can create a shortcut by right-clicking on the item, selecting the Send to option, and choosing Desktop. You can also create shortcuts manually using the New shortcut option on the desktop.
Access the Desktop and Locate the Item
The first step in creating a desktop shortcut on Windows 11 is to access your desktop and locate the item you want to create a shortcut for. This item can be a program, file, folder, or even a drive.
Start by minimizing all open windows so that you can clearly see your desktop. If the item you want to create a shortcut for is already available on the desktop, you can skip to the next step. If not, open File Explorer by pressing the Windows and E keys together.
Once File Explorer opens, browse to the location where the desired file, folder, or application is stored. For example, if you want to create a shortcut for a document, go to the folder where that document is saved. If you want a shortcut for an application, you can find it in the Program Files folder or by searching for it using the Windows search bar.
Finding the exact location ensures that you create the correct shortcut without confusion. This step is important because a shortcut is created based on the original location of the item.
Create a Shortcut Using Right Click
After locating the item, the next step is to create the shortcut using the right-click method. This is the easiest and most commonly used method in Windows 11.
Right-click on the file, folder, or application for which you want to create a shortcut. A context menu will appear on your screen with several options. From this menu, select the option that says Show more options if you are using the modern Windows 11 menu. This will open the classic menu with more features.
Now select the Send to option. A small submenu will appear. From this submenu, click on Desktop, create a shortcut. As soon as you click this option, Windows 11 will automatically create a shortcut of the selected item on your desktop.
You can now close File Explorer and return to your desktop. You will see a new icon representing the shortcut. Double-click on it to check whether it opens the correct file or application.
Create a Shortcut Directly from the Desktop
Windows 11 also allows you to create a shortcut directly from the desktop using the New shortcut feature. This method is especially useful if you want to create a shortcut for an app or location that is not easy to find.
Go to your desktop and right-click on an empty area. A menu will appear. Select New from the menu and then choose Shortcut. A new window will open asking you to enter the location of the item.
Click on the Browse button and navigate to the file, folder, or application you want to create a shortcut for. Once you find it, select it and click OK. The location will be added automatically.
Click Next and then type a name for the shortcut. Choose a name that is easy to recognize. After naming it, click Finish. The shortcut will appear on your desktop immediately.
This method is helpful when you want to create shortcuts for specific files stored deep inside folders or for system tools that are not easily accessible.
Create a Desktop Shortcut from the Start Menu
Another easy method to create a desktop shortcut is by using the Start menu in Windows 11. This method works well for installed applications.
Click on the Start button or press the Windows key on your keyboard. In the search bar, type the name of the application for which you want to create a shortcut. Once the app appears in the search results, click and hold its icon.
Drag the icon from the Start menu onto the desktop. Release the mouse button when you reach the desktop. Windows 11 will automatically create a shortcut for that application.
If dragging does not work, you can also open the Start menu and click on All apps. Find the application in the list, right-click on it, select More, and then choose Open file location. From there, right-click the application and use the Send to Desktop option.
This method is very useful for creating shortcuts for frequently used apps such as browsers, media players, or office tools.
Create a Website Shortcut on Desktop
Creating a shortcut for a website on the desktop can help you open your favorite websites quickly. This can be done using your web browser.
Open your preferred browser and go to the website you want to create a shortcut for. Once the website loads completely, click on the lock icon or website icon in the address bar. Drag this icon directly to your desktop.
When you release the mouse button, a shortcut to the website will be created on your desktop. Double-click the shortcut to open the website instantly in your default browser.
Some browsers also offer an option called Create shortcut in the browser menu. You can use that option to create a desktop shortcut for the website.
Rename and Organize Your Shortcuts
After creating shortcuts, you may want to rename or organize them for better clarity. A well-organized desktop helps improve productivity and reduces clutter.
To rename a shortcut, right-click on it and select Rename. Type the new name and press Enter. Choose names that clearly indicate what the shortcut opens.
You can also move shortcuts around the desktop by dragging them. Group similar shortcuts together so that you can find them easily. For example, you can place all work-related shortcuts in one area and entertainment-related shortcuts in another.
Organizing your desktop regularly ensures that it remains clean and easy to use.
Faqs
What is a desktop shortcut in Windows 11?
A desktop shortcut is a link that allows you to quickly open an application, file, folder, or website from your desktop without navigating to its original location.
Can I create shortcuts for any file or folder?
Yes, Windows 11 allows you to create shortcuts for almost any file, folder, drive, or application stored on your computer.
How do I delete a desktop shortcut?
To delete a shortcut, right-click on it and select Delete. This will remove only the shortcut, not the original file or program.
Can I change the shortcut icon?
Yes, you can change the icon by right-clicking on the shortcut, selecting Properties, and then clicking Change icon. Choose a new icon and apply the changes.
Why is my shortcut not working?
A shortcut may stop working if the original file or application is moved or deleted. In such cases, you need to recreate the shortcut.