A desktop shortcut icon is simply a program from your START menu. Typically, shortcuts are created for programs that are used frequently.
To create one...
Instead of having to go thru the START menu everytime you want to launch a program, you can use the shortcut.
To create a short cut, open your START menu. Click on ALL PROGRAMS. A list of all your programs will pop up.
Select the program that you wish to create a shortcut for byt RIGHT Clicking on the selection. A pop up box will appear.
Choose SEND TOO and select DESKTOP.
This will create an icon on your desktop.
To open the new icon, double click on the new icon and the program will launch.