The Start menu is the main gateway to your computer's programs, folders, and setting. It's called a menu because it provide a list of choices, just as a restaurant menu does. And as the word Start implies, it's often the place that you'll go to start or open things.

press the word Windows key ( ) on your keyboard or click the Start button on the desktop to display the Start menu as shown in the following figure.

Use the Start menu to do these common activities:
  • Start programs.
  • Open commonly used folders:
  • Search for files, folders, and programs.
  • Adjust computer settings.
  • Get help with the windows operating system.
  • Turn off the computer. 
  • Log off from windows or switch to a different user account.
The most important menu item is All Programs, which opens a menu within the Start menu of all your programs. When you move your cursor away from the Start menu, it disappears.