I'm using Windows 10 now but I believe it is the same on Windows 8.
The easiest way for me to find the executable file to make a Desktop or QuickLink shortcut is to open the program or app you want a shortcut for, then open Task Manager by right clicking on the Task Bar.
Using the Task Manager, right click on the program or app and choose, "Open File Location". Once you see the executable file in the Explorer window you can right click and choose, "Send To--Desktop (create shortcut)".