Organize Your Desktop: Tutorial

Computer desktops tend to get a bit messy. Saving files and keeping files convenient is the best part about using your desktop. However, using a desktop organizer can help keep everything organized an in place. These organizers have been floating around the last few months on IG, Facebook and TpT. I think they are genius and decided that I should probably try to make one myself (since I couldn’t find any that suited my style). Here is a tutorial so you can make your own. Not feeling quite up to creating your own, check out the bottom of this post for your choice of two free desktop backgrounds.

*Note: I use PowerPoint to create all of my files. These steps would be similar in Keynote, however they might differ slightly.*

Step One:

Open a new PowerPoint File and go to your page setup option under your File menu. Then set your page size to 17” x 10.6”. 

Step Two:

Start customizing by adding either a digital paper or a solid color to your background.

Step Three:

Add frames, text, clipart and shapes to completely customize your background. Let your creativity and style flow! Try to stray away from putting important elements right at the top and bottom of your slide. They will get cut off a bit. Plus, think about where you have your Application Doc (left, bottom, right) and leave room for it there.

Step Four: 

Go to your PowerPoint Preferences option under your PowerPoint menu. Set your graphics size to 1280 x 798. This will give you crisp lines and clear fonts. (Remember/write down your default setting so you can set it back when you are done creating your desktop background).

Step Five:

Save your graphic as a PPTX so you can edit it again in the future if you need to. Then save your file as a PNG. This is what you will use to save onto your background.

Step Six:

Open your System Preferences, select Desktop and Screen Saver. Then upload your new PNG file using the little + sign at the bottom of your screen. Finally change the setting to “Fit to Screen”.

Step Seven:

Enjoy your new background and customize your desktop icons for the full effect and complete organization. Want to know how to customize your icons? Click here. 

There you have it. A great custom background that fits you, your needs and your personality! It makes working on the computer just a little easier and a little bit more you!

Not sure you have the time or patience to create your own desktop background? No worries... I got you covered. You can download one of the four desktop organizers listed below for free!

 

Black and Brights ---> Download

Gray and Teal ---> Download

Gray and Orange ---> Download

Gold Decor ---> Download

*I use a application called Memo Sticky Notes that I downloaded from the app store as a notes area on my desktop. This allows me to type directly in it and it automatically saves constantly. Plus, you can set it to automatically open when you start your computer so it is always on your desktop. It is a quick place for you to type something you need to remember and keep safe without the hassle of opening a file/program. Added Benefits: It’s free. You can change the font/size so you can still use your fun fonts!**

Pin the image below to save this tutorial for later!