How to Add and Remove Folders in the Windows 11 Start Menu
Custom folders in the Windows 11 Start Menu give you a quick way to put up to five of your favorite folders right next to the Power button. This shortcut area sits at the bottom of the Start Menu next to default items like Documents and Downloads so you do not have to dig through File Explorer every time you need a file.
Adding and removing these shortcuts takes just a few clicks in the Windows Settings app. You can swap out folders whenever your daily routine changes to keep your most-used spots within arm’s reach.
Open Settings , then go to Personalization, click Start , and select Folders. Turn the toggle On to add a folder or Off to remove it from the Start menu .
How to Add or Remove Folders on the Start Menu
Getting these shortcuts onto the Start menu takes a few clicks through the main system settings. Launch the Settings app to begin configuring these directories.
- Open Settings : Click the Start menu button (Windows icon) at the bottom center of your screen, then click Settings . Or press
Windows key + Ion your keyboard to open Settings quickly. - In the Settings window, click on Personalization on the left side.
- Next, click Start on the right side to open Start menu settings.
- Now, click the Folders section to see which folders you can add or remove.
Open Personalization Start in Settings.
Select which folders to show on the Start menu.
Toggle switches appear next to directory names like Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and more.
- To add a folder: Turn the toggle On next to the folder you want to see.
- To remove a folder: Turn the toggle Off next to the folder you don't want to see.
What happens? Once configurations finish, open the Start menu to view selected folders resting near the Power button.
Summary
Wrapping up, pinning these folders creates a cleaner layout that cuts down on daily clicks. Grouping related items together establishes a personalized workspace suited for specific daily routines. Managing these shortcuts directly inside system preferences keeps navigation fast and responsive.- You can add or remove folder shortcuts from the Start menu in Windows 11 to access your files faster.
- Use the Settings app under Personalization > Start > Folders to make changes.
- Organizing your Start menu saves time and keeps things simple.
- Customize it to fit the way you work best.
- Update your folder shortcuts anytime if your needs change.
- Now you know how to make your Start menu more useful by adding or removing folders.
How to get rid of folders in Start menu 🪟 Windows 11?
Summary: Category folders in the Windows 11 Start menu are a built-in feature and can't be removed. The only workaround is switching to List view or pinning apps.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!