How to Put a New Shortcut on the Desktop

The icons visible on a computer desktop are shortcuts to various software and system programs. Computers using the Windows Operating System will have several shortcuts already on the desktop, and there is a method for you to add more shortcuts. These shortcuts can be moved around on the desktop, lined up in various ways or grouped together. Follow these steps to create a new shortcut on the desktop.

Instructions

1. Select an area on the desktop that is blank and then right mouse click.

2. Move the mouse pointer down to the "New" option in the dropdown menu that will appear. Wait until the system reacts and a sub-menu appears on the desktop.

3. Move the mouse pointer over to the new dropdown menu that has appeared and select "Shortcut" from the list of options.

4. Enter information about the program to which you wish to make a shortcut. A form will appear that has the cursor blinking in a box labeled "Type the location of the item" as well as a browse button next to the text box. Either type in the location of the item or select the browse button to browse for the item.

5. Type text into the text box to enable the "Next" button at the bottom of the form so one can continue.

6. Select a name for the shortcut. You can use the default name that is presented if you want.

7. Click "Finish," after ensuring the name of the new shortcut to the desktop is as you want it.