Increase the Amount of Frequently Used Programs Displayed on the Start Menu

The Windows XP user interface has some learning features, whereby it will customize itself to fit your computing style. One of the most obvious examples of this is the frequently used programs section on the bottom left side of the start menu, where shortcuts for the programs you have most recently used are displayed. Normally, this section only has room for about six program icons, but it's a fast and handy way to access your software, so why not add more?

To increase the amount of icons in the frequently used programs list right click on the start menu and choose 'properties.' Select the 'customize' button to the right of the 'start menu' option.

Change the 'select an icon size for programs' option to 'small icons' and in the 'number of programs on start menu' counter below, enter a new value based on how many icons you would like to see. Realistically, depending on your desktop resolution you are not likely to be able to fit more than 15 or so icons here, but enter a higher number if you wish. The system will cut off what it can't display. Hit 'ok' and enjoy your newly useful start menu.