How do I add shortcuts to my desktop in Windows 10?

This article explains how to create desktop shortcuts for applications, folders, and files. Additional information covers how to create shortcuts from a web browser. Instructions apply to Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

Create a Shortcut From the Desktop

When you create a shortcut on the Windows desktop, you get easy access to any file or program installed on your computer. There are two requirements for creating a shortcut. First, you must know the file or program path or be able to navigate to it. Second, you must have permission to access the file or program. There are multiple ways to create shortcuts. Below are the steps to create a shortcut on your desktop by using the Create Shortcut wizard.

1. On your desktop screen, right-click any empty space.

   

   

2. In the drop-down menu that appears, select New.

   

   

3. Select Shortcut.
   

   

   

4. In the Create Shortcut wizard, select Browse to find the file or program that needs a shortcut.

   If you already know the path to the file or program, type it and proceed to step five.

   

   

5. Navigate to the file or program you want to create a shortcut for. Select OK.

   

   

6. Select Next.

   

   

7. Type the name you want to assign to the shortcut, then select Finish.

   

   

8. Your new shortcut appears on your desktop. You can use it as you would the other shortcuts.

   

   

Create a Desktop Shortcut in File Explorer With a Right-Click

There are three ways to create a desktop shortcut from File Explorer. The first method includes using the right-click context menu. See the next two sections for alternative ways.

1. From your taskbar, launch File Explorer.

   

   

2. Navigate to the file or program, then select it.

   

   

3. Right-click the name of the file. From the menu that appears, select Send to.

   

   

4. Select Desktop (create shortcut).
   

   

   

5. Your new shortcut appears on your desktop. You can use it as you would the other shortcuts.

   

   

Create a Desktop Shortcut Using the Alt Key

The second way to create a desktop shortcut from the File Explorer is by using the Alt key:

1. From your taskbar, launch File Explorer.

   

   

2. Locate the program or file.

   

   

3. While pressing the Alt key, left-click and drag the app to your desktop and release.

   

   

Create From File Explorer Using Right-Click and Drag

The last way to create a shortcut from File Explorer is by using right-click and dragging to the desktop:

1. From your taskbar, launch File Explorer.

   

   

2. Locate the program or file.

   

   

3. Right-click and drag the program to the desktop and release.

   

   

4. From the right-click context menu, select Create shortcuts here.

   

   

Create a Shortcut From the Start Menu

Another way to create an application shortcut is from the Start menu. See the steps below.

1. Select Start in the lower-left corner. Alternatively, press the Windows key.

   

   

2. Locate the app that needs a desktop shortcut.

   

   

3. Left-click and drag the app to your desktop, then select Link.

   

   

Create a Shortcut of a Web Page

If you have a favorite web page you visit frequently, you can create a desktop shortcut in a few steps. The steps below apply to Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox.

1. Open your favorite browser and navigate to your favorite website.

   

   

2. In the address bar, select the padlock and drag it to the Desktop.

   

   

3. Release your mouse button. A shortcut should appear.

   

   

What to Know