Windows 11 features a robust desktop environment with a lot of neat tricks and customizations to work more effectively. Controlling your Windows desktop experience can enhance productivity and streamline the way you interact with your computer. In today’s blog, we give you four tips to help you customize and manage your Windows environment more efficiently.
Use Virtual Desktops for Better Organization
Windows offers a virtual desktop feature that allows you to create multiple desktops, each with different sets of open applications. This is useful for separating work tasks from personal activities or organizing different projects.
To create and switch between virtual desktops:
Press Windows + Tab to open Task View, then select New Desktop at the bottom of the screen. You can then switch between active desktops by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow. This is a great feature that helps reduce clutter on your main desktop and keeps your workspaces focused and organized.
Customize Your Start Menu and Taskbar
Tailoring the Start Menu and Taskbar can make accessing frequently used programs and settings easier. You can pin your most-used apps to the Start Menu for quick access by right-clicking an app and selecting Pin to Start or customize the Taskbar by right-clicking it, choosing Taskbar settings, and adjusting options like icon size, visibility of the search bar, or auto-hiding the Taskbar when not in use. You can also drag and drop frequently used apps onto the Taskbar for instant access with one click.
Use Snap Assist to Manage Open Windows
Snap Assist helps you quickly arrange open windows to maximize screen space. You can drag a window to any edge of the screen to snap it into place. Some advanced Snap Assist tricks include:
- Press Windows + Left/Right Arrow to snap windows to the side of the screen.
- Snap up to four windows by using the corners or dragging them to different sides of the screen.
Automate Tasks with Keyboard Shortcuts and Windows PowerToys
Keyboard shortcuts can dramatically speed up how you navigate Windows. Some common and useful shortcuts for this include:
- Windows + D - Show or hide the desktop.
- Alt + Tab - Quickly switch between open apps.
For more customization, you can install Windows PowerToys, a free suite of tools that adds extra functionality, like advanced window management, keyboard remapping, and a powerful search tool. PowerToys can improve workflow efficiency by allowing for highly customized controls that suit your needs. Check with your business’ IT resource for help doing this.
By mastering these tips, you can create a more streamlined and personalized Windows desktop experience that aligns with your working style. If you would like to see more tips and tricks on how to navigate your way around Windows, stay tuned to this blog.
