Shortcuts and Icons
What is a "Shortcut" or a "Desktop Shortcut"?
​ A "Shortcut", which can also be called a "Desktop shortcut" or a "Desktop Icon", is exactly what the name implies. It is a shortcut to a specific location. These shortcuts can lead virtually anywhere including but not limited to:
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A program that is installed on your computer: Internet Explorer (A Web Browser), your Anti-Virus or a computer game.
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A Website: your e-mail, Facebook.com or Youtube.com.
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Or a file stored anywhere on your computer for quick and easy access.
A Shortcut can be located anywhere. You might hear it called a "Desktop Shortcut" or "Desktop Icon" if the shortcut is placed on the desktop but otherwise it is just called a shortcut.
Is every "Icon" on my desktop a "Shortcut"?
No. Folders and files can also be placed on your desktop. The difference between a folder or file and a shortcut is that a folder contains files, a file contains data and a shortcut leads to a file, folder, program or website.
Where can a shortcut be found?
A Shortcut can be placed on your desktop, inside folders, in the start menu or on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen.