Hi tradewell2,
First connect the external monitor to VGA port (NOT HDMI port). If you use your HDMI port, then it will duplicate your desktop.
To connect to VGA port, you will need VGA cable.
Then right click on your desktop, goto Graphics Option -> Output To -> Extended Desktop -> Built - in- Display and Monitor
Now enjoy.
Even you can add more monitors to your laptop.
Hope it will solve your problem.