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Here’s a little trick I use to efficiently open programs from the start menu. I add a number to my frequently used shortcuts in each directory, that way I can easily access any program simply by pressing the Windows Key, then P followed by a sequence of numbers corresponding to folders and programs.

Here’s a screenshot of my start menu — I prefer the classic menu even in XP since I find it cleaner and more useful. Of course, it also helps to have programs grouped and arranged in some sort of logical sequence with very frequently used programs available immediately in the start menu.

Alternatively, you can come up with creative folder names that all start with a different letter. However, it is important to make sure no two folders start with the same letter or number, that way pressing the first letter will automatically open the next menu instead of just highlighting it.

This will relieve some dependence on the mouse (it’s easy to miss the folder you want with the mouse) as well as keep your desktop and quick launch bar clean and clear of shortcuts. Vista users have it even better since they can directly search for a program to run after pressing the Windows key.

After using this system for a week or so, you’ll have the frequently used program shortcuts memorized, you might not even need to touch the mouse for a lot of tasks! Using a Thinkpad X41, I naturally don’t have a Windows key but I have bound caps lock to it and find it invaluable when doing everyday tasks.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, August 1st, 2007 at 10:05 pm and is filed under Efficiency. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.