Can't move shortcut icons on my desktop to different locations on the desktop

Anonymous
2010-08-17T01:53:34+00:00

I cannot move my desktop shortcut icons around on my desktop.  Think it has something to do with the auto-allign feature - how do I fix this ?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Accessibility

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Ramesh 181.2K Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2010-08-17T04:46:39+00:00

Right-click desktop, click View, and uncheck Auto arrange icons.

Ramesh Srinivasan | The Winhelponline Blog

Microsoft MVP, Windows Desktop Experience

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  1. Anonymous
    2016-03-21T17:46:47+00:00

    Thank you!!!  Escape did the job!

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  2. Anonymous
    2016-02-02T16:34:40+00:00

    I had this exact problem on my windows 10 desktop and auto-arrange was NOT checked.  What I discovered was that you can't move icons when you are in TABLET mode.  Switch back to your normal laptop/keyboard mode and you should be able to move your icons again.

    Kevin C.

    Normal, everyday user

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  3. Anonymous
    2016-02-02T16:24:52+00:00

    I have the same problem (started after a reboot and half my icons where suddenly in the middle of my desktop) and auto arrange is NOT checked.  If I try to move icons, it will only allow me to place a shortcut there, not simply drop the existing icon there.

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  4. Anonymous
    2016-01-21T21:29:08+00:00

    Thanks.  Hitting ESC a few times worked.

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