How to create a rule in the Outlook Desktop App Open the Outlook Desktop App. This is the standalone application of Outlook that can be installed on your desktop. Once the app is open, navigate to the "Home" tab. This tab is usually located at the top of the application window. Within the "Home" tab, you'll find the "Move" group. Click on "Rules" within this group, and from the drop-down menu that appears, select "Create Rule". A dialog box named "Create Rule" will open up. This is where you'll define the conditions and actions for your rule. You can do this by checking the boxes and selecting options from the drop-down menus. Be sure to consider each condition and action carefully to ensure your rule works as intended. Once you've set up your rule, click "OK" to finalize it. The rule will now be created and it will automatically apply to all incoming and outgoing messages that meet the conditions you've defined. This way, you can automate certain actions and save some time in your day-to-day email management.