Start Menu (annoyance)

[Technel]

Ok, this isn't really a problem, but it's really annoying.

On the start menu, when you go to programs, it lists all the programs. In Windows XP Pro, it has the little arrow to be "helpful". So everytime I go there, to see ALL of the programs on the start menu, I have to click that.

I don't know what this is called, maybe auto hide items on start menu or something, but I couldn't find it in any searches. I also tried customizing the start menu, but it doesn't seem to be in there either. I know I saw this before, but I can't remember how do disable this.

I'd really appreciate a quick reply. Thanks!


-Michael

[`Rapid]

Yeah it's simple to fix that. Right click on you're task bar, click properties, then click the start menu tab. Click "classic start menu" . this is how everyone should use WinXP.

`Rapid

[Technel]

Actually, that's what im using...It still has the little double arrow to expand the start menu and see all the icons.

[ESALADUANE]

Try this:

(right-click) Taskbar > (tab) Start Menu > (button) Customize > (tab) Advanced

Near the bottom of the list is an option called "Scroll Programs". Take the check mark out of the box to get columns of programs in your "All Programs" menu rather one long scrolled column.

[Technel]

I've already checked most of the things in there. That box wasn't checked.

And BTW, it's not making columbs. I only have 10 folders and icons in my start menu. Apparently it only shows 9 and hides the rest. I am a neat freak, can't stand unorganization, heh.

[ESALADUANE]

Sorry, I didn't catch it that you were using the classic startup menu. You can only get multiple columns by using the XP style startup menu.

[TAB]

Technel

Still not sure I follow you on your problem, but set your number of start menue items to 0 (start menu properties) -- this allows you to place the ones you want there. It also keeps Windows from doing funny things on its own, such as hiding those it can't list.

Regards,

TAB

[bigblackbiz]

What this user is talking about is called "personalized menus" and is one of the most widely-despised features of WinXP. It violates the cardinal rule of development, which is to produce a consistent interface for the user. It can be disabled in WinXP by following this procedure:

Select Settings in your Start Menu, and then select Taskbar & Start Menu.

Choose the Start Menu tab, choose Classic Start Menu, and click Customize.

Turn off the Use Personalized Menus option, and click Ok when you're done.

Relevant article: Annoyances.org

This is a very common question which any decent XP tech should be able to answer!

Good luck