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How add Shortcuts to Add a Shared Folder in Your OneDrive

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jun 30, 2026 2 min read
How add Shortcuts to Add a Shared Folder in Your OneDrive
How add Shortcuts to Add a Shared Folder in Your OneDrive

Adding shortcuts to shared folders in OneDrive puts important files right at your fingertips.

OneDrive shortcuts let you create a quick link to a shared folder from another user, making it appear in your own OneDrive file list.

This is different from syncing the folder, as it doesn’t download the files to your computer. Instead, it provides a convenient way to access shared documents or projects without cluttering your main storage.

For example, if a colleague shares a “Project Alpha” folder with you, adding a shortcut means you can quickly jump to it from your OneDrive dashboard, just like a bookmark for a website.

Sign in to OneDrive Online

First, open your web browser and go to OneDrive.com. Sign in with the Microsoft account that received the shared folder. This is important because the shortcut will be added to the OneDrive account you are logged into.

Microsoft account login page for signing in with email and password.
Microsoft account login page for signing in with email and password.

After signing in, look at the left side of the page. Options like “My files,” “Recent,” and “Shared” will appear. Click on “Shared.” This is where you’ll find everything that others have shared with you.

OneDrive online interface showing the 'Shared' section with folders.
OneDrive online 'Shared' section showing folders shared with user.

Locate the Folder You Want to Add

Scroll through the list of shared items. Find the specific folder you want to add to your “My files.” Some items may be marked “Can edit.” This indicates you can add them as a shortcut. If an item only says “Can view,” adding a shortcut isn’t possible.

Add the Shortcut to ‘My Files’

Adding a shortcut to a shared folder in OneDrive is simple and keeps important files handy.

Alternatively, right-click directly on the folder. A context menu will appear, listing “Add shortcut to My files” as an option. Select it.

Adding a shortcut to 'My files' in OneDrive online.
Add shortcut option in OneDrive 'Shared' section to 'My files'.

Verify the Shortcut in ‘My Files’

After adding the shortcut, you can easily check if it’s in your ‘My Files’ list.

Accessing Your New Shortcut

Once you add a shared folder shortcut, it shows up everywhere you use OneDrive, making it easy to find.

  • On OneDrive.com: You will see it in your “My files” list, just like we did.
  • In Windows File Explorer: If you have the OneDrive app installed on your PC, the shortcut will appear in your OneDrive folder. It looks like any other folder, making it easy to access without opening your web browser.
  • On Mac Finder: Mac users will also find the shortcut in their OneDrive folder within Finder.
  • On OneDrive Mobile Apps: Your shortcuts will be available on your phone or tablet through the OneDrive app.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-US/onedrive/add-shortcuts-to-shared-folders-in-onedrive

Summary

Adding a shortcut to a shared OneDrive folder is a great way to keep important files easily accessible across all your devices.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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