Windows 11 has come with a lot of changes and new features, and one of them is the ability to add apps on the desktop for quick access. Adding apps on the desktop can make it easy to launch them without navigating through various pages or opening the Start menu. It is especially helpful when you have a specific app that you use frequently. In this blog post, we will be discussing various ways you can add apps on the Windows 11 desktop.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we delve into the different methods of adding apps on the desktop, there are a few things you need to have. Firstly, you need to have Windows 11 installed on your computer. Secondly, you need to have the app that you wish to add on the desktop already installed. Lastly, you need to have a basic understanding of how to use and navigate your computer.
What Requires Your Focus?
Adding apps on the desktop is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. However, it is essential to ensure that you pay attention to the following key areas:
1. Space: Ensure that there is enough space on your desktop for the app you want to add. If there isn’t enough space, you may have to reorganize your desktop or place the app in a folder.
2. Overcrowding: Be mindful of overcrowding on your desktop. Having too many apps cluttered on your desktop can make it challenging to find what you need.
3. Organization: Consider organizing your desktop by categorizing apps into folders to reduce clutter and make it easy to find what you need.
Different Methods to Add Apps on Desktop Windows 11
Method 1: Drag and drop
This method involves using your mouse to drag and drop the app icon from the Start menu onto the desktop.
Step 1: Click on the Start menu located at the bottom left corner of your screen.
Step 2: Locate the app you wish to add on the desktop and click and hold the app icon.
Step 3: Drag the app icon to the desktop.
Pros:
– It’s a quick and easy way to add apps to your desktop.
– You can add multiple apps at once.
Cons:
– Dragging and dropping can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
– It may not work for all apps.
Method 2: Pin to taskbar
This method involves pinning the app to the taskbar and then creating a shortcut from the taskbar to the desktop.
Step 1: Locate the app you want to add on the Start menu.
Step 2: Right-click on the app icon and select "Pin to Taskbar."
Step 3: Locate the app on the taskbar, right-click on it, and select "Create shortcut."
Step 4: Move the shortcut to the desktop.
Pros:
– It’s a quick and easy way to add apps on your desktop.
– The apps will also be available on the taskbar for easy access.
Cons:
– It may create more clutter on your taskbar.
Method 3: Create a shortcut
This method involves creating a shortcut from the app and then placing it on the desktop.
Step 1: Locate the app you want to add on the Start menu.
Step 2: Right-click on the app icon and select "More > Open file location."
Step 3: Right-click on the app file and select "Create shortcut."
Step 4: Move the shortcut to the desktop.
Pros:
– You can customize the icon of the shortcut.
– It’s a flexible way to add apps to your desktop.
Cons:
– It may take longer to create a shortcut for some apps.
– If the app file is moved or deleted, the shortcut will no longer work.
Why Can’t I Add Apps on Desktop Windows 11?
1. App not installed: You need to ensure that the app you want to add is already installed on your computer.
Fix: Install the app on your computer.
2. Insufficient space: If there isn’t enough space on your desktop, you may not be able to add the app.
Fix: Reorganize your desktop or create a folder for the app.
3. App not compatible: Some apps may not be compatible with Windows 11.
Fix: Check the app’s requirements and see if it’s compatible with Windows 11.
Implications and Recommendations
Adding apps on the desktop is a simple process that can significantly improve your productivity. However, it’s essential to be mindful of clutter and ensure that you have sufficient space on your desktop. It’s also recommended that you organize your apps into folders to reduce clutter and make it easy to find apps.
5 FAQs about Adding Apps on Desktop Windows 11
Q: Can I add any app to my desktop?
A: Yes, as long as the app is installed on your computer, you can add it to your desktop.
Q: Can I add multiple apps at once?
A: Yes, you can add multiple apps on your desktop using the drag and drop method.
Q: Can I customize the icon of the app on my desktop?
A: Yes, you can customize the icon of the shortcut when using the create shortcut method.
Q: What can I do if my desktop is already cluttered with apps?
A: Consider creating folders for your apps to reduce clutter and make it easy to find what you need.
Q: Can I add apps to my taskbar and desktop simultaneously?
A: Yes, you can add apps to your taskbar and desktop using the pin to taskbar method.
In Conclusion
Adding apps to the desktop in Windows 11 is a simple process that can help improve productivity and accessibility. There are different methods you can use to add apps to the desktop, and each has its pros and cons. It’s essential to be mindful of clutter and prioritize organization when adding apps to your desktop.
