Shortcut to open a folder in windows; Accessing the programs we use on a daily basis will be much faster and easier by having a shortcut on the desktop screen. But what if we can execute our desired program or folder with just a key press on the keyboard? If you want to create a keyboard shortcut in Windows for your used folders or applications, then be sure to join us in the continuation of this article on Wironal.
How to open a folder or application on the taskbar?
Did you know that in Windows 10, you can run your programs with just a few keystrokes? Although you will encounter some limitations, if you need it, you can create a keyboard shortcut in Windows for your desired programs without the need to download any additional applications.
To use this method, you must first pin your desired applications or folders into the taskbar. To do this, just open the folder or app you want, right-click on its icon in the taskbar and then select Pin to taskbar . Of course, a faster way to do this is to drag the program icon or folder into the taskbar.
To open the program or the pinned folder, just press the Windows key ( Win ) with the corresponding number. simply! Note that your taskbar icons are numbered from left to right. For example, look at the following image:

You must use the following shortcuts to open the applications in the image above:
- To open Photoshop, you must press Win + 1 at the same time.
- To open File Explorer, you must press Win + 2 at the same time.
- To open Sticky Notes, you must press Win + 3 at the same time.
- To open Google Chrome, you must press Win + 4 at the same time.
Note : If you want to open the tenth icon in the taskbar, you must press Win + 0 at the same time.
There are many benefits to using this method. You do not need to download and install a specific program on your system, and even if you have hidden your taskbar, this method will still work for you. But if you do not want your taskbar to be crowded, we do not recommend this method, in addition, you should keep in mind that this method can be used for up to 10 programs or folders.
If you have these problems, we recommend that you use the following method.
Open a folder or app using WinHotKey
WinHotKey is a free application that you can easily use to create keyboard shortcuts in Windows. Using the settings of this application, you can use your own custom shortcut key to open a specific application or folder.
Follow these steps to create a new keyboard shortcut using WinHotKey:
- Download and install the WinHotKey app.
- Click New Hotkey .
- Now use the drop-down menu below I want WinHotKey to choose what you want your keyboard shortcut to do.
- Select the keys you want.
- Click Browse to select the program or folder you want.
- Now click OK to save the new keyboard shortcut.

Note : WinHotKey can also be used to open various files or control windows.
Download WinHotKey app (free)
Settings Create a keyboard shortcut in Windows
Using the above methods, you can quickly create a keyboard shortcut in Windows for your favorite programs or folders. If you are not interested in installing additional software to do this, we suggest you use the first method. Otherwise, installing WinHotKey will give you many options to make custom settings that will make it more enjoyable for you.