Step 6: Pin and Create Hot Keys For Favorite Apps

Once you get your favorite applications installed, you'll want to make it easy to launch them. In Windows 7, you can avoid scrolling through a ton of folders and get quick access to programs in one of three ways.

Create a Hot Key: To launch a favorite program, right-click on any shortcut and select Properties. Then, enter a key combination in the Shortcut Key box and click Enter. Be sure to use a unique key combination that doesn't contradict those used in your favorite programs.

Pin to Taskbar: Right-click on a shortcut in the Start menu and select Pin to Taskbar. The icon will take a permanent place to the right of the Start button.

Pin to Start Menu: Right-click on a shortcut and select Pin to Start Menu. The icon will remain at the top of the Start menu, not buried in the All Programs folder.