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How To Add Desktop Shortcut Icons in Windows 10 OS

Adding desktop shortcut icons in Windows 10 is an easy way to quickly access your frequently used apps, files, folders, and websites. As a tech writer with over 10 years of experience working with Windows operating systems, I will guide you through the various methods to organize your desktop by adding useful shortcut icons.

Why Add Shortcuts to the Desktop?

Here are some of the benefits of using desktop shortcuts:

  • Quick access – Instead of digging through menus or file folders, you can open apps and files with one click.
  • Save time – Eliminate the need to search for items when you know exactly where to click to open them.
  • Stay organized – Keep all your most-used items neatly arranged for easy access rather than scattered across your computer.

Ways to Add Desktop Shortcuts

There are a few different ways to add shortcuts your Windows 10 desktop:

Drag and Drop

  • Open the Start Menu and locate the app you want to create a shortcut to.
  • Left-click and hold the app icon, then drag it to your desktop and release.

Through File Explorer

  • Right-click a blank area on your desktop and select New > Shortcut.
  • Browse to the file location and select the item.
  • Click Next, name the shortcut, then click Finish.

Desktop Icon Settings

  • Open Settings > Personalization > Themes.
  • Scroll down and select Desktop icon settings.
  • Check the box next to the shortcuts you want, like This PC or Recycle Bin.

Tips for a Clean Desktop

Avoid clutter by following these best practices:

  • Delete unused shortcuts by right-clicking them and selecting Delete.
  • Resize icons for consistency by right-clicking the desktop and selecting View > Medium icons or Large icons.
  • Align icons for a neat appearance by snapping them to an invisible grid.
  • Use folders to group related shortcut icons.

Creating Specific Desktop Shortcuts

Here are some shortcuts that are very useful to have on your desktop:

This PC

Gives quick access to all drives and folders.

Recycle Bin

Lets you easily restore recently deleted files.

Downloads Folder

Opens your downloaded files library.

Specific Apps

Pin your most-used apps like browser, email, or Office.

Websites

Create shortcuts to frequently visited sites.

With the right desktop shortcuts in place, you can save time and be more productive on your Windows 10 computer. Follow the tips outlined here to set up and organize your customized desktop icons.

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