Weekly Computer Tip # 170
16 September 2006

find the original item of a shortcut (Microsoft Windows)

If you use certain folders or files a lot you probably have shortcuts to them on your desktop or on the Quick Launch toolbar on the Taskbar. Which means that if you want to open the folder or file all you have to do is double-click the shortcut icon that it represents. So far so good.

But what if you "inherited" somebody else's machine and don't have a clue where these folder or files actually live. Or perhaps you cannot remember yourself? So let's say you want to find the original file or folder location.

Here's how:

1. Right-click the item's shortcut
2. Select Properties from the menu options
3. Click on the Find Target button

Thanks for the inspiration, Pippa, and good luck in your new job!

Until next week.

PS I’m committed to sharing the best of what I know with others so please don’t keep me a secret. If you enjoyed today’s tip, please forward it to anyone you feel may benefit. Alternatively, feel free to reprint it (with full copyright and subscription information) in your newsletters and message boards.

Home   Training   Support   Clients   Contact Details   News   Disclaimer