For years, Microsoft Windows has provided quick access to various programs through the shortcuts placed in the Start Menu and the quick launch buttons. In Windows 7, these shortcuts are not just shortcuts, but also direct links to some of the frequently accessed instances or functions of the applications. This is achieved via the new feature called the Jump List. The Jump List can be accessed from both the Start Menu and the Task Bar.

 

For example, your Internet Explorer (IE) has http://www.facebook.com/ set as your homepage, but one of your daily tasks is to access NTU's webmail (https://webmail.ntu.edu.sg/).

Previously, in order to open the webmail, you have to launch the IE browser and then access the webmail either through your Favorites list or by typing the URL in the address bar.

In Windows 7, with the help of the Jump List, you can go to NTU's webmail directly from the Start Menu or the IE icon on the Task Bar, even if you have never saved the URL in your Favorites list!

 

How to do that? Well, simply open the IE, go to the webmail URL and drag it to the IE icon on the Task Bar, and Bingo!

 

From now onwards, to access the Jump List, you only need to:

 

 

Another excellent example for using the Jump List is your MSN Messenger. Most of the common tasks that conventionally need to be accessed from the main interface can now be accessed through the Jump List.

 

 

So, embark on the new Windows 7 and enjoy a quick launch of your favourite applications with the new Jump List feature!