Computer BasicsThe Windows desktop: icons, an open window, and the taskbar
Lesson 6 of 45Easy 6 min +25 XP
Getting Around Windows
Desktop, Start menu, Taskbar and windows — your daily home screen.
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▶A quick tour of Windows
Step 1/4
Desktop — Windows—▢✕
🖼 Desktop
1
This whole space is the Desktop
Files and shortcuts can sit here.
When the computer starts, the first screen you see is the Desktop. Think of it like the main table in your office — everything starts from here.
The 3 things you'll use every single day
- Start button (bottom-left, Windows logo) — opens every program.
- Taskbar (the bar at the bottom) — shows what is open right now.
- Icons — small pictures that open apps or files when double-clicked.
Windows keyOpens the Start menu instantly from anywhere
Windows can be resized
- Minimize (–) — hides the window to the taskbar.
- Maximize (□) — makes it fill the screen.
- Close (✕) — closes it completely.
Close (✕) means the program shuts. If you were typing something, save first — closing does not save for you.