why cant i drag file icons from one place on my desktop to another.

Unfortunately - that doesn't work.

The problem seems to be getting worse (unless there were issues that I hadn't noticed). In addition to not being able to move icons on my desktop:

• They don't open when clicked
• When I click on files in Finder, they don't fully open - a window opens with an image of the file, there is a box in the upper right that reads "Open With <application name>." However, selecting that does nothing.
• I similarly can't open applications from Finder - I need to drag them into my dock and then open them.

I'm not sure you can help with these issues; I am just giving you further background. I'll call Apple support next.

Thanks

I appreciate the help - so no need to explain the questions:

1) Keyboard strokes - I held down the "control" button on my keyboard - last button, lower left hand side and clicked on my desktop with my mouse.

2) Keyboard - Mac "Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad" that I received/purchased when I purchased the Mac.

3) Mouse - "Magic Mouse" - similarly, received/purchased when I purchased my Mac - notethat this may be a replacement but if so, has been in use or a few years.

Interestingly, I just noticed that many selects are greyed out in the Finder Menu - see the attached image. I only mention this because there may be a connection between the two issues.

Thanks. That's what I remembered. However, when I do what you recommend, this is what I see.

Thanks. However, Secondary Click is already engaged and the problem continues.