By default, the Documents folder and other folders like Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Videos are hidden in the Windows 10 and Windows 11 Start menus. However, each of these can be re-enabled by selecting your version of Windows below and following the instructions.

Enable the special folders in the Windows 11 Start menu

  • Press the Windows key, type Settings, and press Enter. Or, press the keyboard shortcut Windows key+I.
  • On the left side of the Settings window, select the Personalization option.
  • On the right side of the window, scroll down and click the Start option.
  • Click the Folders option.
  • Change the Documents option or any other options from “Off” to “On.”

Once completed, you see a Documents option on the bottom-right side of the Windows 11 Start menu, as shown in the picture below.

  • Enable the special folders in the Windows 11 Start menu
  • Enable the special folders in the Windows 10 Start menu

Enable the special folders in the Windows 10 Start menu

  • Right-click an empty area on the desktop and select Personalize.
  • On the left side of the Personalization window, click Start.
  • Click Choose which folders appear on Start.
  • Change the Documents option or any other options from “Off” to “On.”

Once completed, you see a Documents icon near the bottom-left side of the Windows 10 Start menu, as shown in the picture below.

  • Missing My Computer, My Network Places, or My Documents icon.
  • Where do I find Accessories in the Windows Start menu?
  • See our Documents and Start menu pages for further information and related links.
  • Microsoft Windows 10 help and support.