The latest Windows operating system, Windows 11, is rapidly gaining popularity, increasing its market share to over 31% as of August 2024. This trend is expected to continue as Windows 10 is set to retire in 2025.
Have you already upgraded to Windows 11 or are you planning to do so soon? If so, you’ll appreciate these tips for optimizing your experience with the new operating system. Windows 11 offers several excellent features, but effectively utilizing them is key to enhancing productivity.
Let’s explore some of the most effective settings and tools that can transform your daily workflow.
1. Start Menu Customization
The Start Menu may appear less important than other features, but it serves as your gateway to all the applications and settings on your computer. It is frequently used to open apps, perform searches, and much more, which makes it a significant potential productivity booster.
Customizing your Start Menu can help you save time and reduce the number of clicks needed. Here are a few suggestions:
- Pin Frequently Used Apps: Right-click on any app and select “Pin to Start.” This keeps your most-used applications just a click away.
- Organize into Folders: Drag and drop apps on top of each other to create folders. Label these for easy identification.
- Adjust Start Menu Layout: Go to Settings > Personalization > Start. Here, you can choose which folders appear on Start and adjust the layout to suit your needs.
2. Virtual Desktops
Virtual desktops allow you to organize your workspace. You can separate different tasks into distinct desktops. For example, one for work and one for personal.
- Create a New Desktop: Click on the Task View button on the taskbar or press Win + Tab. Click on “New Desktop” to create a new virtual space.
- Switch Between Desktops: Use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow to switch between desktops.
3. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups
Snap Layouts and Snap Groups are powerful tools for multitasking. They snap windows into position for side-by-side work. Start using them. You’ll notice a big reduction in time-consuming app-switching.
- Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on any window to see available snap layouts. Choose a layout to snap the window into place.
- Create Snap Groups: Snap windows into a layout. Windows 11 remembers the group. Hover over the taskbar icons to see and restore the snap group.
4. Focus Assist
Focus Assist helps you stay focused by minimizing distractions.
- Enable Focus Assist: Search “Focus” from the taskbar search and click Focus Settings. Choose your options, and click to start a session.
- Set Automatic Rules: Configure automatic rules to enable Focus Assist during specific times. For example, when duplicating your display or when playing a game.
5. Widgets
Widgets provide quick access to personalized content like news, weather, calendar, and more.
- Access Widgets: Click on the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press Win + W.
- Customize Widgets: Add or remove widgets. Adjust their size and position to suit your preferences.
6. Taskbar Customization
A well-organized taskbar can significantly enhance your productivity. Tired of looking at icons you never use? Hide them to get them out of your way. This reduces distractions and helps you find what you need faster.
- Pin Apps to Taskbar: Right-click on any app and select “Pin to taskbar” for quick access.
- Adjust Taskbar Settings: Right-click on the taskbar and choose “Taskbar settings.” Here, you can customize taskbar behaviors. Such as hiding it in desktop mode or showing badges on taskbar buttons.
7. Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Once you learn your favorites, using them will be like second nature. Here are some essential ones:
- Win + E: Open File Explorer.
- Win + I: Open Settings.
- Win + D: Show or hide the desktop.
- Win + L: Lock your PC.
- Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps.
8. Power and Battery Settings
Adjusting power and battery settings can extend your device’s battery life and enhance its performance. Understanding these changes is particularly useful when you’re away from a power source for an extended period.
- Adjust Power Mode: Go to Settings > System > Power & battery. Choose a power mode that balances performance and battery life.
- Battery Saver: Enable Battery Saver to extend battery life. Use it when your device is running low or you’re away from power for an extended time.
9. Storage Sense
Storage Sense helps you manage disk space by automatically deleting unnecessary files.
- Enable Storage Sense: Go to Settings > System > Storage. Turn on Storage Sense and configure it to run automatically.
- Configure Cleanup Schedules: Set up schedules for several tasks. Such as deleting temporary files, emptying the recycle bin, and removing unused files.
10. Accessibility Features
Windows 11 includes several accessibility features that can enhance your productivity.
- Magnifier: Use the Magnifier tool to zoom in on parts of your screen. Press Win + Plus to activate it.
- Narrator: Enable Narrator to read text on your screen aloud. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Narrator.
- High Contrast Mode: Improve visibility by enabling high contrast mode. Go to Settings > Accessibility > High contrast.
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