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​The desktop is the main screen area that you see after you turn on your computer and log on to Windows. Like the top of an actual desk, it serves as a surface of your work. When you open programs or folders, they appear on the desktop. You can also put things on the desktop, such as files and folders, and arrange them however you want.

​The desktop is sometimes defined more broadly to include the taskbar and Windows Sidebar. The taskbar sits at the bottom of your screen. It shows you which programs are running and allows you to switch between them. It also contains the start button, which you can use to access programs, folders and computer settings. On the other side of the screen, Sidebar contains small programs called gadgets.

​Icons are small pictures that represents files, programs and other items. When you first start Windows, you’ll see at least one icon in your desktop: the Recycle Bin.

Your computer manufacturer might have added other icons on the desktop. Some examples of desktop icons are shown below.

​The start menu is the main gateway to your computer’s programs, folders and settings.

Use the Start menu to do these common activities:

1. Start programs

2. Open commonly used folders

3. Search for files, folders and programs

4. Adjust computer settings

5. Get help with the Windows operating system

6. Turn off the computer

7. Log off from windows or switch to a different user account

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​The Search box is one of the most convenient ways to find things on your computer.

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​The Recycle Bin - When you delete a file or folder, it doesn’t actually get deleted right away – it goes to the Recycle Bin. That’s a good thing, because if you ever change your mind and decide you need a

deleted file, you can get it back.

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