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:

• A program that is installed on your computer: Internet Explorer (A Web Browser), your Anti-Virus or a computer game.

• A Website: your e-mail, Facebook.com or Youtube.com.

• 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.