How to Create Desktop Shortcuts in Windows Vista

Customizing and organizing your Windows Vista computer desktop can keep it free of clutter while maintaining convenient access to your favorite programs or files. Desktop shortcuts can save you time by offering easy access to programs that are often used from a central location. Creating a shortcut does not alter the location of the file; rather, it creates a link on the desktop that is associated with the program or file.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer Windows Vista operating system

Create Shortcuts for Programs, Folders or Files

1. Locate the program, folder or file for which you wish to create a shortcut. You can locate the item through the "Start" menu or through the "Computer" folder. Use the "Search" toolbar at the bottom of the "Start" menu if you are unsure of the item's location.

2. Right-click on the name or icon of the file. Select the "Send to" option from the drop-down menu and choose "Desktop (create shortcut)" from the "Send to" options.

3. You may also click and drag the program's icon or name onto the desktop to create a shortcut. This method will not work for files or folders.

4. Locate the shortcut on your desktop to make sure it was successfully created. You can rename the shortcut by highlighting it and clicking on its name once.

Create Shortcuts for Default Desktop Icons

5. Go to your computer's desktop and right-click on the desktop. Click "Personalize" from the drop-down menu.

6. Click on "Change desktop icons" under the "Task" header on the left-hand side of the window. It is the second option from the top of the pane.

7. Select the boxes next to the list of desktop icons to create shortcuts on your desktop. For example, click on the white box next to "Computer" to create a desktop shortcut to the "My Computer" folder. Available shortcuts include "Computer," "User's Files," "Network," "Control Panel" and "Recycling Bin." Click "OK" to save and apply your selections.

Tips & Warnings

• Delete a shortcut by right-clicking on the icon and selecting "Delete" from the drop-down menu. This will delete the shortcut only; the program will remain on your computer. You can identify a shortcut by the arrow on its icon. All shortcut icons have arrows which indicate the link is a shortcut, not the program itself.