5 Exclusive Tricks to Master Windows 11 Now
Ready to master Windows 11 and boost your daily workflow? Over half of Windows users worldwide now enjoy this new system, thanks to its sleek look and smart features. Studies show that you can work up to 15% faster with the right tools. Try out each trick as you go, and you’ll soon master Windows 11 like a pro. Jump in and see how much more you can get done!
Key Takeaways
Use Snap Layouts to arrange many apps fast. This keeps your screen tidy and helps you do more at once.
Make and switch Virtual Desktops to split up your work. This helps you focus and stops distractions.
Try File Explorer’s new tabs and shortcuts to find files quicker. This lets you work better and faster.
Learn Windows 11’s special keyboard shortcuts to save time. These shortcuts help you get more done each day.
Change Widgets so you get updates and reminders fast. This helps you stay organized and know what is happening.
1. Snap Layouts
Using Snap Layouts
Snap Layouts in Windows 11 make multitasking easy and fun. You can organize your open apps in neat grids or rows, so you never lose track of what you’re working on. Unlike older versions of Windows, where you had to drag windows to the edge of the screen, Windows 11 gives you ready-made layouts. Just hover your mouse over the maximize button on any window, and you’ll see several layout choices pop up. You can split your screen in half, into thirds, or even quarters, depending on your screen size. This feature works great if you have a big monitor or like to keep lots of apps open at once.
Tip: Press
Win + Zto open Snap Layouts even faster!
Customizing Layouts
You can make Snap Layouts work just the way you want. Here’s how you can set them up:
Hover over the maximize button or press
Win + Z.Pick a layout that fits your needs—maybe two windows side by side, or four in a grid.
Click the spot where you want your current app to go.
Snap Assist will help you fill the other spots with your open apps.
Once you fill all the spots, Windows creates a Snap Group. You can switch between these groups from the taskbar.
If you want even more control, try PowerToys’ FancyZones. This tool lets you design your own custom layouts and save them for later.
Multitasking Tips
Snap Layouts and Snap Groups help you stay organized and focused. You can quickly switch between groups of apps, which is perfect for school projects or work tasks. Many users say Snap Layouts make multitasking smoother, especially on large screens. For example:
You can keep your email, a web browser, and a document open side by side.
Snap Groups let you save your favorite setups and bring them back with one click.
Project managers often arrange their tools, chats, and spreadsheets together, making it easy to jump between tasks.
With Snap Layouts, you spend less time moving windows around and more time getting things done. Give it a try and see how much easier your day becomes!
2. Virtual Desktops
Create Desktops
You can boost your focus and keep your work neat by using Virtual Desktops in Windows 11. Think of each desktop as a separate desk for a different project. Want to set up a new one? Just open Task View by pressing Win + Tab or click the Task View icon on your taskbar. Then, select New desktop. You can make as many as you need for school, work, or fun.
Name each desktop for easy tracking. Right-click the desktop thumbnail and choose Rename. Try names like “Homework,” “Games,” or “Art.”
Change the background for each desktop. This helps you spot the right one at a glance.
Each desktop runs its own set of apps, so you won’t mix up your tasks.
Tip: Press
Win + Ctrl + Dto create a new desktop in seconds!
Switch Workspaces
Switching between desktops is quick and smooth in Windows 11. You can move from one workspace to another without closing your apps. This keeps your flow going and helps you avoid distractions.
You can also use Task View to see all your desktops and jump to the one you want. Many users say these shortcuts make multitasking much easier.
Organize Tasks
Virtual Desktops help you stay organized and focused. You can group apps and windows by project or subject. For example, keep your research and writing tools on one desktop, and your music or games on another. This way, you reduce clutter and avoid mixing up your work.
Move apps between desktops by dragging them in Task View.
Close desktops you don’t need to keep things tidy.
Use Snap Layouts on each desktop to arrange your apps just how you like.
Studies show that it takes over 23 minutes to refocus after a distraction. Virtual Desktops help you cut down on distractions and get more done. Try setting up a few desktops today and see how much smoother your workflow becomes!
3. File Explorer Features
Hidden Options
You might think File Explorer is just for opening folders, but Windows 11 hides some cool tricks. These features help you find files faster and keep your work organized. Here are a few you should try:
Use advanced search filters to narrow down your results. You can search by file type, date modified, or even file size. This makes finding that one document much easier.
Right-click on files or folders to see extra options. Hold the Shift key while right-clicking to unlock even more commands in the context menu.
Try the new tabs feature. You can open several folders in one window, just like browser tabs. This keeps your desktop tidy and helps you switch between projects quickly.
Tip: Tabs in File Explorer are a game changer. You can drag files between tabs without opening new windows!
Navigation Shortcuts
You can move around File Explorer much faster with keyboard shortcuts. These save you time and make you look like a Windows pro. Here are some favorites:
Ctrl + N: Open a new File Explorer window.Ctrl + W: Close the current window.Alt + Up Arrow: Go up one folder level.Ctrl + T: Open a new tab in File Explorer.Ctrl + Tab: Switch between tabs.
Try using these shortcuts for a day. You’ll notice how much smoother your workflow becomes.
Quick Access
Windows 11 changed Quick Access and gave it a new name: Home. The new Home view looks different and works in new ways. Check out this table to see how it compares to Windows 10:
Tabs are the biggest upgrade. You can keep everything in one window and switch between folders with a click. Some users love the new look, while others miss the old controls. Try the new Home view and see which features help you most!
4. Keyboard Shortcuts
Unique Shortcuts
Windows 11 brings some fresh keyboard shortcuts that you won’t find in older versions. These shortcuts help you move faster and get more done without lifting your hands from the keyboard. Check out this table of exclusive Windows 11 shortcuts and see how each one can boost your productivity:
Tip: Try using
Win + Wto check your schedule or the weather without opening extra apps. It saves time and keeps you focused.
Custom Shortcuts
You can make your own shortcuts in Windows 11. This trick lets you open your favorite apps or files with just a few keys. Here’s how you do it:
Right-click the file or app you want.
Choose ‘Send to’ > ‘Desktop (create shortcut)’.
Right-click the new shortcut and pick ‘Properties’.
In the ‘Shortcut key’ box, type your shortcut combo.
Hit ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’.
Want even more control? Download Microsoft PowerToys and use the Keyboard Manager. You can remap keys or create new shortcut combos for any app. Many people set up shortcuts for launching browsers, opening folders, or even muting their mic during calls.
Everyday Combos
You probably use some shortcuts every day, but Windows 11 has even more to offer. Here are some of the most popular combos:
Win + D: Show or hide your desktopWin + E: Open File ExplorerWin + L: Lock your PCAlt + Tab: Switch between open appsCtrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task ManagerCtrl + C/Ctrl + V: Copy and pasteWin + Z: Open Snap LayoutsWin + X: Open Quick Link menu
Using these shortcuts can save you hours each year. You’ll spend less time clicking and more time getting things done. Give them a try and watch your workflow speed up!
5. Master Windows 11 Widgets
Widgets in Windows 11 give you quick access to news, weather, your calendar, and more—all in one place. If you want to master Windows 11, learning how to use and customize widgets will make your daily routine smoother and more fun.
Personalize Widgets
You can make widgets fit your style and needs. Here’s how you can personalize them:
Open the Widgets board from the taskbar or by pressing
Win + W.Click the profile icon or the “+” button to add new widgets.
Rearrange widgets by dragging them where you want.
Resize widgets by clicking the three-dot menu on each widget and choosing a size.
For some widgets, like Weather, select “Customize widget” to set your location or interests.
You can also personalize widgets from the Settings app under Personalization > Lock screen, or even from the Lock screen itself.
Tip: Developers keep adding new interactive widgets, so check back often for fresh options!
Quick Settings
You can control which widgets show up on your taskbar. If you want to enable or disable widgets, follow these steps:
Right-click the taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
Find the Widgets toggle and switch it on or off.
For advanced users, you can use the Local Group Policy Editor or Registry files to manage widgets. This gives you even more control if you want to master Windows 11 at a deeper level.
Daily Use
Widgets help you stay organized and informed every day. Try these ideas:
Use the To Do widget to track homework or chores.
Check the Calendar widget for upcoming events.
Get real-time traffic updates before you leave home.
The Tips widget shares handy tricks to help you master Windows 11.
Add Photos, Sports, or Entertainment widgets for a personal touch.
Widgets can turn your desktop into a command center. You get updates, reminders, and news without opening extra apps.
If you use widgets daily, you’ll notice how much easier it is to keep up with your schedule and tasks. Start exploring and see how widgets help you master Windows 11!
You now know five special tricks to use Windows 11 better. These tips help you work faster and keep your tasks neat. They also make it easy to do more than one thing at a time. Lots of people say Snap Layouts and virtual desktops help them stay on track. If you have trouble, update your system or visit Microsoft’s help pages and forums.
Try out each trick today to get more done right away.
Tell us your own tips in the comments.
Keep looking for new features because updates will add even more ways to use Windows 11!
FAQ
How do I turn off Windows 11 widgets?
You can right-click the taskbar and pick Taskbar settings. Find the Widgets toggle and switch it off. That’s it! Widgets will disappear from your taskbar.
Can I use Snap Layouts on any monitor?
Yes! Snap Layouts work on any monitor. If you have a bigger screen, you get more layout choices. Try it out by hovering over the maximize button on any window.
What if my keyboard shortcuts don’t work?
First, check if your keyboard is plugged in right. Restart your computer. If shortcuts still don’t work, update Windows 11. Sometimes, a quick update fixes shortcut problems.
How do I rename a virtual desktop?
Open Task View with Win + Tab. Right-click the desktop you want to rename. Choose Rename and type a new name. Press Enter. Now you can keep your desktops organized!
Can I add more widgets to the Widgets board?
Yes! Open the Widgets board with Win + W. Click the “+” button. Pick new widgets from the list. Drag them where you want. You can always add or remove widgets to fit your needs.