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The Start menu in Windows is the starting point for most applications, because it contains pointers known as "Shortcuts" to the programs that are stored in the hard disk. When you install a new application for the first time, it is customary for the install program to put an icon in the Start menu's programs section. Putting a Shortcut in the main part of the Start menu provides you with the fastest way to launch an application, because it is immediately visible when you click the Start menu.
The Start Menu is a folder located on the hard drive. From Windows 95 to Me, it is located, by default, in C:\Windows\Start Menu, and individual users' menus are located in C:\Windows\Profiles\username\Start Menu. In Windows XP, the menu is located in C:\Documents and Settings\username\Start Menu for individual users.
All subfolders of the Start Menu folder appear as groups on the menu itself. It is possible to store any files within these folders, and they will appear on the Start Menu, but the main use is to place shortcut files within the Start Menu folders, to allow the programs they point to be executed.
