The newest Windows OS is fast gaining ground on Windows 10. As of Decenber 2024, Windows 11 had over 31% of the Windows market share. That is bound to increase fast as Windows 10 retires in 2025.
Already upgraded to the new operating system or planning to soon? Then, you’ll love these tips on optimizing your Windows 11 experience. Windows 11 offers several great features. But you must use them to gain the productivity boost.
Let’s jump into some of the most effective settings and tools that can transform your daily workflow.
1. Smart Menu Customization
The Start Menu might seem less important than other features. But it’s your gateway to all the applications and settings on your computer. It’s used all the time to open apps, search, and more. This makes it a huge potential productivity enhancer.
Customizing your Start Menu can save you time and clicks. Here are a few ideas:
- 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 to choose which folders appear on Start and adjust the layout.
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 the Task View button on the taskbar or press
Win + Tab. Then click “New Desktop.” - Switch Between Desktops: Use
Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow.
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 and help reduce app-switching.
- Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on any window to view layout options and snap it into place.
- Create Snap Groups: Snap windows together and hover over taskbar icons to restore the group.
4. Focus Assist
Focus Assist helps you stay productive by minimizing distractions.
- Enable Focus Assist: Search “Focus” from the taskbar, select Focus Settings, and configure your options.
- Set Automatic Rules: Enable Focus Assist automatically during certain conditions like duplicating your display or gaming.
5. Widgets
Widgets provide quick access to personalized content like news, weather, calendar, and more.
- Access Widgets: Click the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press
Win + W. - Customize Widgets: Add, remove, resize, and rearrange widgets to suit your needs.
6. Taskbar Customization
A well-organized taskbar enhances productivity by reducing visual clutter.
- Pin Apps: Right-click any app and choose “Pin to taskbar” for quick access.
- Adjust Taskbar Settings: Right-click the taskbar and choose Taskbar settings to manage what appears and how the taskbar behaves.
7. Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can dramatically speed up your workflow. Here are a few essentials:
Win + E: Open File ExplorerWin + I: Open SettingsWin + D: Show or hide the desktopWin + L: Lock your PCAlt + Tab: Switch between open apps
8. Power and Battery Settings
Optimize power settings to extend battery life and improve performance.
- Adjust Power Mode: Go to Settings > System > Power & battery and select a power mode.
- Use Battery Saver: Enable Battery Saver when running low on power or away from a power source.
9. Storage Sense
Storage Sense helps you free up disk space automatically.
- Enable Storage Sense: Go to Settings > System > Storage and turn on Storage Sense.
- Set Cleanup Schedules: Automatically delete temp files, empty the recycle bin, and remove unused files.
10. Accessibility Features
Windows 11 includes helpful accessibility tools that can also improve productivity.
- Magnifier: Press
Win + Plusto zoom in on your screen. - Narrator: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Narrator to turn on screen reading.
- High Contrast Mode: Enable it via Settings > Accessibility > High contrast for improved visibility.
Looking for More IT Productivity Tips?
Our team of tech experts has many other productivity tips to share. If you’re looking to optimize your workflow, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Contact us today to schedule a chat about productivity enhancers.