As of August 2024, Windows 11 has already captured over 31% of the Windows market share, rapidly closing the gap with Windows 10. With Windows 10's retirement slated for 2025, the adoption of Windows 11 is set to surge. If you've already made the upgrade—or are planning to soon—get ready to unlock its full potential.
Windows 11 offers a wealth of features designed to boost productivity. However, to truly take advantage of them, you’ll need to know how to optimize your experience. Here are some of the best tips to help you work smarter, not harder.
1. Smart Start Menu Customization
Though often overlooked, the Start Menu is your central hub for apps and system settings. Customizing it can save you time and reduce the number of clicks you need to make throughout the day. Here’s how:
- Pin Your Most Used Apps: Right-click any app and select Pin to Start to keep your go-to programs at your fingertips.
- Organize with Folders: Drag and drop apps to create folders. Label them for easy access, keeping your Start Menu clean and organized.
- Tweak the Layout: Go to Settings > Personalization > Start to adjust which folders appear and how the layout looks, tailoring it to your needs.
2. Virtual Desktops for Better Organization
Virtual Desktops allow you to separate tasks across different workspaces, keeping your focus sharp and your workflow streamlined. For instance, you can create one desktop for work and another for personal use.
- Create a New Desktop: Click the Task View button on the taskbar or press Win + Tab and select New Desktop.
- Switch Between Desktops: Use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow to quickly toggle between desktops.
3. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups for Multitasking
Windows 11’s Snap Layouts and Snap Groups make multitasking easier than ever. These features automatically arrange open windows in a tidy grid, so you don’t waste time switching between apps.
- Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on any window to see available layout options, then choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Create Snap Groups: Once you’ve arranged your windows, Windows 11 remembers the layout. Simply hover over the taskbar icons to restore your Snap Group at any time.
4. Focus Assist to Minimize Distractions
Focus Assist helps you stay on track by limiting interruptions. Whether you’re working, gaming, or giving a presentation, it ensures you're not disturbed by unnecessary notifications.
- Enable Focus Assist: Search for Focus in the taskbar search box, then select Focus Settings. Choose the level of notification suppression that works best for you.
- Set Automatic Rules: Schedule Focus Assist to turn on automatically at specific times—like when you’re duplicating your display or playing a game.
5. Widgets for Instant Information
Widgets provide at-a-glance information such as the weather, news, and calendar events. By adding and customizing your widgets, you can keep essential updates right on your desktop.
- Access Widgets: Click the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press Win + W.
- Customize Widgets: Personalize the widgets by adding, removing, and resizing them to suit your needs.
6. Taskbar Customization for a Cleaner Workspace
A cluttered taskbar can hinder productivity. Windows 11 allows you to customize it to suit your workflow and remove distractions.
- Pin Apps to the Taskbar: Right-click on any app and select Pin to Taskbar for easy access.
- Adjust Taskbar Settings: Right-click the taskbar and choose Taskbar Settings to tweak its behavior, such as hiding it in desktop mode or enabling taskbar button badges.
7. Master Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your daily tasks. Once you commit a few to memory, navigating your PC becomes second nature.
- Win + E: Open File Explorer
- Win + I: Open Settings
- Win + D: Show/Hide Desktop
- Win + L: Lock your PC
- Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps
8. Optimize Power and Battery Settings
To extend battery life and optimize performance, adjusting your power settings is essential. If you're frequently on the go or working unplugged, these tweaks can make all the difference.
- Adjust Power Mode: Head to Settings > System > Power & Battery to choose a power mode that strikes the right balance between performance and energy consumption.
- Enable Battery Saver: Turn on Battery Saver when your device is running low, or when you’re away from a power source for an extended period.
9. Storage Sense for Automatic Cleanup
Windows 11’s Storage Sense can automatically delete unnecessary files, keeping your device running smoothly. If you're running low on disk space, Storage Sense can be a real lifesaver.
- Enable Storage Sense: Go to Settings > System > Storage and turn on Storage Sense. From there, you can schedule automatic cleanups.
- Set Cleanup Schedules: Choose tasks like deleting temporary files, emptying the recycle bin, or removing unused files on a schedule.
10. Accessibility Features for Everyone
Windows 11 comes equipped with a variety of accessibility tools that not only make your PC more usable but can also improve productivity for all users.
- Magnifier: Zoom in on parts of your screen by pressing Win + Plus.
- Narrator: Enable the Narrator to read on-screen text aloud. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Narrator to enable it.
- High Contrast Mode: Improve readability by enabling high contrast mode in Settings > Accessibility > High Contrast.
Want More IT Productivity Tips?
Our team of tech experts is always ready to share new ways to help you optimize your workflow. Whether you’re looking for more tips on Windows 11 or other productivity boosters, feel free to reach out to us and take your productivity to the next level!