Create a New Folder shortcut using the System Preferences -> Keyboard & Mouse -> Keyboard Shortcuts panel. The system won't let you choose Cmd-N, but it will let you choose Cmd-Shift-N. Use that. Desktop. The shortcut key should work there too. read more
There is always another way to do everything in Windows. Leave it to Microsoft to change some of the shortcut keys from one operating system to another. This must be one of the reasons they are always "improving" and therefore selling a new, upgraded version of their software. read more
For instance, next to "New Folder" note the symbols that look like a hollow up arrow, a clover leaf symbol, and the letter "N." That means hold down the Shift Key, the Command Key, and the N all at the same time to create a new folder. You can find a lot of keyboard shortcuts just by looking to the right of the menu items. read more