How to start programs in Windows Vista

The Start menu in Windows Vista has been redesigned, giving you new ways to start programs. You can start programs by searching for the program, clicking on shortcuts, or finding the program in the All Programs list.

Vista offers a way to start programs that isn't available in previous Windows versions - search. Simply type all or part of the name of the program you want to start into the search box that is included in the Vista Start menu. As you type, Vista will display your search results. When you see the program you want to start in the Programs section of the results, you can click on the shortcut to start the program.

If you don't want to use your mouse, keep typing the name of the program until it is the program at the top of list. The top program will be highlighted, indicating that it is selected. You can press Enter at any time to start the highlighted program.

Now that you know how to start programs with the search tool, continue with the tutorial to learn how to start programs from the shortcuts listed on the initial Start menu.