add shortcut to a file say a local pdf on to the homescreen My jelly bean phones are not rooted. I was hoping to be able to place a file, or a shortcut to a file, such as a '.pdf' on the homescreen.

I have seen suggestions that it may be done, by using file managers, but maybe that no longer applies. Both devices have 4.2.2 jelly-bean.
See for instance this question.

I have tried on an HTC desire 310 and on an Alcatel onetouch.  I get no option to add the file or shortcut to the home screen. I did install the Astro file manager, with a shortcut on the home screen but did not see any additional option for putting a pdf on the homescreen.
Download and then install the latest version of Astro File Explorer.

long press on a home screen where you want the shortcut. Select widgets, then select "Astro". Astro then asks you for choice one file, then you can go to your pdf Directory and add it on the home screen. ; )