The prefix "shortcut to" before filename is missing. Now, when I right click and choose create shortcut, I get the shortcut icon with the bent arrow and the file name. Before, I got the bent arrow icon, then the words "shortcut to" followed by the filename.
How can I restore this prefix?

If you have tweak ui, select explorer in the tree, scroll down in the settings and check "prefix 'shortcut to' on new shortcuts".

Another way is to navigate to this registry key:


Look for the value name Link and delete it.

Cheers,

I should have asked what OS you are using.

Also, if you have multiple user profiles, you should delete the Link values in the following keys:



Don't delete the entire Explorer key, just the value Link in the right side.

That is, if you decide to edit the registry manually. A reboot may be necessary.

cheers,