desktop icons changed order

i was in a word document and clicked "save to desktop" 9i think?) and then when it went to my desktop screen the icon order was all over the shop - still ordered but different to how i had it.

when did i give my pc permission to do this?

Welcome
The problem that you described has happend before, to others. The best way to prevent it in the future is by using fences
Stardock Corporation - Software - Fences

i dont want to have to download yet another program to fix something that is essentially a settings issue - it usually always is.

There are many occasions when desktop shortcuts can get scrambled. I got them all off my desktop and put them into a toolbar. That is a lot neater because I can order them very well and they are always accessible without having to go to the desktop. Besides, I now can admire my nice desktop pictures without all the crummy icons obstructing it. Toolbars - How to Use in Windows 7 and Vista - Windows 7 Forums

hmmm, interesting