How to Add Gadgets in Windows 7

Step 1: Bring Up the Gadget Window

Right-click on the desktop to bring up the menu.

One of the challenges of moving from Windows Vista to Windows 7 is learning where stuff has moved. For instance, Vista had "Gadgets" -- small productivity programs that always appear on your desktop -- set up by default on the right side of the screen.
Windows 7, in an effort to de-clutter the desktop, does not automatically add gadgets; you need to do that yourself. Fortunately, it's a pretty easy process.
In this step-by-step tutorial, we'll add the Weather gadget, which puts a weather icon on your desktop. First, right-click in any open space on the Windows 7 desktop. That will bring up the menu seen above. Left-click Gadgets (outlined in red).

Step 2: Choose the Gadget

The Gadgets windows appears. Choose "Weather."

The gadget window appears, with the default gadgets, and any that have been added, listed. Left-click "Weather".

Step 3: Click to Add the Gadget

Left-click "Add" to add the gadget to your desktop.

There are two ways to add the gadget to your desktop:

• Right-click the "Weather" icon and left-click the "Add" menu item that pops up (outlined in red).
• Left-click the icon and, while holding down the mouse button, drag the icon out of the window and onto the desktop.

Step 4: Confirm That the Gadget Has Been Added

The Weather gadget is added to the right side of the desktop.

You will see the gadget appear on the right side of the desktop. Note that the default placement is on the right; you can move the gadget around the screen by left-clicking it, holding the mouse button down and dragging it anywhere.