Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft and is designed to provide users with a modern and streamlined experience. However, even with its new features and improvements, it can be challenging to navigate and optimize your experience without a few expert tricks and tips. In this article, we will explore some expert tricks and tips for Windows 11 that can help you improve your productivity, efficiency, and overall experience.
1. Customize your start menu
The start menu is one of the most significant changes in Windows 11. It is now centered, and you can pin your favorite apps, recent files, and recommended content. To customize your start menu, right-click on any app or file and select “Pin to Start.” You can also drag and drop apps to the start menu to arrange them the way you want.
2. Use Snap Layouts and Snap Groups
Snap Layouts and Snap Groups are new features in Windows 11 that make multitasking more comfortable than ever. Snap Layouts allow you to snap windows to predefined positions on your screen, while Snap Groups let you save groups of windows for quick access. To access Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, click on the maximize button on any window, and you will see the available options.
3. Use virtual desktops
Virtual desktops are a great way to organize your workspace and reduce clutter. You can create multiple virtual desktops and switch between them with ease. To create a new virtual desktop, click on the Task View button on the taskbar and select “New desktop.” You can also move windows between virtual desktops by right-clicking on the window and selecting “Move to” and then selecting the desired desktop.
4. Use keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can save you time and effort, especially if you use Windows 11 frequently. Here are some essential keyboard shortcuts:
- Windows key + A: Open the Action Center
- Windows key + D: Show desktop
- Windows key + E: Open File Explorer
- Windows key + I: Open Settings
- Windows key + L: Lock your computer
- Windows key + P: Open the Project screen
- Windows key + S: Open Search
5. Use the new settings app
The new settings app in Windows 11 is more intuitive and user-friendly than ever. It is designed to make it easier to find and customize settings for your computer. To access the settings app, click on the Start button and then click on the gear icon.
6. Customize your taskbar
The taskbar in Windows 11 is more customizable than ever. You can choose which icons are displayed on the taskbar, and you can also choose whether the taskbar is centered or aligned to the left. To customize your taskbar, right-click on the taskbar and select “Taskbar settings.”
7. Use the new snipping tool
The new snipping tool in Windows 11 is a powerful tool for capturing screenshots and annotations. It allows you to capture rectangular, freeform, and full-screen screenshots, and you can also add annotations and highlight specific areas. To access the snipping tool, press Windows key + Shift + S.
8. Use the new widgets
The new widgets in Windows 11 provide a quick and easy way to access news, weather, and other information. You can customize your widgets to show the information you need, and you can also resize them to fit your screen. To access the widgets, click on the widgets button on the taskbar.
9. Use dark mode
Dark mode is a popular feature that reduces eye strain and can save battery life on laptops and other devices. Windows 11 has an excellent dark mode that you can turn on by going to Settings > Personalization > Colors and selecting “Dark” under the “Choose your color” section.
10. Using the PowerToys App
The PowerToys app is a collection of utilities that can help you customize and enhance your Windows 11 experience. Some of the features of the app include a keyboard manager, a file renamer, and a color picker. You can download the PowerToys app from the Microsoft website, and it is completely free to use. Some of the most useful PowerToys include:
- FancyZones: A tool that allows you to create custom snap layouts and zones.
- PowerRename: A tool that allows you to rename multiple files quickly.
- Keyboard Manager: A tool that allows you to remap keys and create custom keyboard shortcuts.
11. Using the Windows Terminal
The Windows Terminal is a new command-line tool that allows you to run multiple command-line applications in one window. The Terminal is fully customizable, and you can customize the colors, fonts, and other settings to suit your needs. To open the Windows Terminal, simply press the Windows key + R, type “wt” in the Run dialog box, and press Enter.
