I have just recently started using Windows XP Pro (used to have Home version).
My desktop is cluttered with icons to file folders and new documents that
have been created since I started using the Pro version.

Every time I create a new file folder, or a new document, an icon to that
folder or file appears on my desktop.  In my Office programs, the file folder
defaults are set up to go to a different drive and folder.  Let's say I
create a Word doc and forcibly save it as E:\docs\test.doc   The file is
saved as requested but an icon also appears on the desktop called test.doc.  
If I attempt to delete it, the file in the E: also is deleted. 

Also, in Word for example, I have my default file folder set up as E:\docs
but when I save a new document, it puts it in desktop unless I change the
path.  This is getting to be a nightmare.  

I did not setup this computer but inherited from a family member who didn't
seem to mind the clutter and has no idea why this occurs.  I absolutely hate
this feature, whatever it is.  I want my documents saved to a particular
place, and certainly not on my desktop.  

How do I "fix" this?

Thanks
K

It looks like the Desktop shell folder path is pointing to E:\docs folder. Try this:

Click Start, Run and type:

cmd /k reg query "HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders" /v Desktop

It's a single line command. Watch for line wraps.

Press {ENTER}

Copy the output and include it in your reply.

I have just recently started using Windows XP Pro (used to have Home version).
My desktop is cluttered with icons to file folders and new documents that
have been created since I started using the Pro version.

Every time I create a new file folder, or a new document, an icon to that
folder or file appears on my desktop.  In my Office programs, the file folder
defaults are set up to go to a different drive and folder.  Let's say I
create a Word doc and forcibly save it as E:\docs\test.doc   The file is
saved as requested but an icon also appears on the desktop called test.doc.  
If I attempt to delete it, the file in the E: also is deleted. 

Also, in Word for example, I have my default file folder set up as E:\docs
but when I save a new document, it puts it in desktop unless I change the
path.  This is getting to be a nightmare.  

I did not setup this computer but inherited from a family member who didn't
seem to mind the clutter and has no idea why this occurs.  I absolutely hate
this feature, whatever it is.  I want my documents saved to a particular
place, and certainly not on my desktop.  

How do I "fix" this?

Thanks
K

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