Instant Shut Down in Windows XP

One of the most popular tips from my book was the ‘instant shut down’ shortcut that can be used in place of clicking on Start –> Shut Down, etc.

Unfortunately, the tip does not apply to Windows XP. If you are a Windows XP and would like to create an icon that will shut down your computer, read on.

If you are a Windows 95/98/Me user, you can find the tip by searching my web site below for “instant shut down”. Or if you own my book, the tip is on page 63.

To create your Windows XP shut down icon, follow these steps exactly:

1. RIGHT click on your Desktop
2. Click on New
3. Click on Shortcut
4. Type: shutdown -s -t 01
5. Click the Next button
6. Type a name for your shortcut
7. Click the Finish button

Now just double-click on the new icon to shut down your computer. Note that on some machines, you may still need to push the power button if presented with a “it’s safe to shut down…” screen.

Stay tuned for a tip next week on how to change the icon of any shortcut.