When the Microsoft Office programs are installed, you have the choice to create a desktop shortcut for the individual Office programs. However, if you don't create a desktop shortcut at the time that you install Office then decide that you want a desktop shortcut later, you can easily create one.
Note: This article explains how to create a shortcut on your desktop. You can also add a program to the taskbar. If you are using Windows 10, right-click the program name or tile, click More > Pin to taskbar. If you are using Windows 11, right-click the program name or tile, and then select Pin to taskbar.
Create a desktop shortcut for an Office program
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Click the Windows key, and then browse to the Office program for which you want to create a desktop shortcut. In Windows 11, select All apps to find the app you want.
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Left-click the name of the program, and drag it onto your desktop.
A shortcut for the program appears on your desktop.
Create a desktop shortcut for an Office document or file
You can also create desktop shortcuts for specific Office files or documents.
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In Windows Explorer, browse to the document or file for which you want to create a desktop shortcut.
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Right-click the name of the document, and then click Create shortcut. In Windows 11 you may have to select Show more options to find Create shortcut.
A shortcut for that document or file appears on your desktop.
