Clever Hacks for Getting the Most Out of Your Windows 11 Computer

Windows 11 is the most recent operating system from Microsoft and comes packed with a host of new features and a sleek design that promises enhanced productivity. However, beyond the obvious interface changes, there are numerous hidden tools and clever hacks that can help you get even more out of your Windows 11 experience. Read on to learn more.

Snap Layouts for Multitasking

Windows 11 introduces a powerful feature called Snap Layouts, which makes multitasking more seamless. You can organize multiple windows on your screen with ease by hovering your mouse over the maximize button in any window. This will bring up a grid of possible layouts to choose from, such as splitting your screen into halves, thirds, or quarters. Go for the layout that fits your needs and effortlessly manage multiple apps side by side.

Virtual Desktops for Better Organization

Virtual Desktops are not new to Windows 11, but they’ve been improved significantly. This feature lets you create multiple desktops for different tasks, reducing clutter and helping with focus. For example, you can have one desktop dedicated to work-related tasks and another for personal use. To create or switch between Virtual Desktops, press Windows Key + Tab, and you’ll see the option to manage them at the top of the screen. You can also set different wallpapers for each desktop, making it easier to distinguish between them.

Use Widgets for Quick Information Access

The Widgets panel gives you personalized news, weather updates, calendar events, and more, all at a glance. You can access it by pressing Windows Key + W. This feature can be customized by adding or removing widgets according to your preference, ensuring you have the information you need without opening specific apps or browsers. Whether you need to keep an eye on your tasks for the day, track the stock market, or check on traffic, Widgets help you stay informed in a visually appealing way.

Customizing the Start Menu

The new Start Menu in Windows 11 is centered on your screen by default, but you can move it back to the left if that’s your preference. To do this, go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors and select “Left” under “Taskbar alignment.” On top of this, you can pin your favorite apps and rearrange them for quicker access. By keeping the Start Menu organized and decluttered, you can massively reduce the time spent searching for apps.

Master Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are a huge time-saver and allow you to navigate your system quickly without relying on your mouse. Windows 11 retains many classic shortcuts and introduces new ones to help streamline tasks. For instance, Windows Key + A opens Quick Settings, Windows Key + N opens the Notification Center, and Windows Key + C opens Microsoft Teams for instant communication. Knowing the shortcuts for switching between apps (Alt + Tab), taking screenshots (Windows Key + Shift + S), or even accessing the Emoji panel (Windows Key + Period) can drastically reduce the time you spend hunting for tools and enhance your workflow efficiency. You can read about the best keyboard shortcuts for Windows 11 online.

Dark Mode and Night Light for Eye Comfort

Windows 11 offers several features to reduce eye strain, especially when working late into the night. You can activate Dark Mode by going to Settings > Personalization > Colors and selecting “Dark” under the Choose your mode option. You can also activate Night Light, which reduces blue light emission from your screen. This feature can be scheduled to turn on on its own in the evening, helping you avoid eye fatigue and sleep disturbances caused by blue light exposure.

Game Mode for Performance Boosts

If you use your Windows 11 computer for gaming, you’ll want to make use of Game Mode. This mode prioritizes system resources for gaming by reducing background processes that could slow down your experience. To enable it, go to Settings > Gaming > Game Mode. Additionally, Windows 11 supports features like Auto HDR and DirectStorage, which improve game visuals and load times on compatible hardware.