How to Start Windows Explorer in a Custom Folder

Microsoft Windows Explorer is the application used to view all of the files and folders on your hard drive. There are some pre-set specialty folders, like "My Documents" and "My Pictures," that allow easy access to specific data. "Shortcuts" can also be used to start Explorer in a custom folder. A shortcut is a very small file that acts like a pointer to another file or folder. Shortcuts are easily created and added to the Desktop to open any folder on the computer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Open the "Start" menu and select "My Computer." For Vista, it is just "Computer." Both are located in the right-hand column of the "Start" menu.

2. Navigate through the folders until you reach the one you want to use. Make sure Explorer is in that folder's parent directory, which means the folder icon and name are visible in the right-hand section of the window.

3. Right-click the icon for the folder you want to use and select or hover over "Send To" in the pop-up menu. In the sub-menu, select "Desktop (create a shortcut)." A shortcut for that folder will appear on the Desktop.

4. Close the "My Computer" window and double-click the newly created shortcut. Explorer will start in the folder you chose.

Tips & Warnings

• A shortcut icon will have a white box with a curved arrow inside in teh lower left hand corner. These icons can be deleted at any time without affect the file or folder they are pointing to. They can also be renamed without having to rename the original file or folder.