The newest Windows OS is quickly gaining on Windows 10. As of August 2024 it had over 31% of the Windows market share, that is bound to increase as we get closer to Windows 10 retiring in 2025.
Here are some tips on optimising your Windows 11 experience
Smart Menu Customisation
The start menu might seem less important than other features, however we think it is actually more important than you may think. The start menu is the gateway to all the applications and settings on your computer. It is used all the time so could actually be a huge productivity enhancer.
Here are somethings you could do:
- Pin Frequently used apps.
You can right click on any app and select “Pin to Start”. This keeps your most-used applications just a click away.
- Organise into folders
You can create folders for your apps. All you have to do is drag and drop apps on top of each other to create folders that are completely bespoke to you. You can even label these folders for easy identification
- Adjust Start Menu Layout
You can choose what folders appear on Start and rejig the layout so that it is perfect for you
Virtual Desktops
Virtual desktops allow you to organise your workspace. You can separate different tasks into distinct desktops. For example you could have one for work and one for personal.
- To create a New desktop just click on the Task View button on the taskbar or press Win + Tab. Then Click on ‘New Desktop’ to create a new virtual space.
- To switch between desktops use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right arrow.
Snap Layouts and Snap Groups
Snap layouts and groups are a powerful tool for multitasking. They snap windows into position for side by side work. Here’s how:
- Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximise button on an 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.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard Shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Once you earn your favourites, 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
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 Setting > Accessibility > High Contrast.
Bonus: Focus Assist
There is a specific setting within Windows 11 that helps you to stay focused and minimises distractions.
- To Enable Focus Assist: Search ‘Focus’ from the taskbar and click Focus Settings. Choose your options and click to start a session.
- To Set Automatic Rules: Configure automatic rules to enable focus assist during specific times. For example, when duplicating your display or when playing a game.
There are plenty more Tips and tricks where they came from! If you are looking to optimise your workflow get in touch today!