Windows 11 is taking over! By August 2024, it already snagged over 31% of the Windows market share, and with Windows 10 retiring in 2025, that number’s only going up. Windows 11 is packed with awesome features to boost your productivity—if you know how to use them. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks in your Windows 11 settings to help you make the most of your experience.  

1. Supercharge Your Start Menu 

The Start Menu might seem like no big deal, but it’s your shortcut to everything on your PC. Why not make it work for you? 

• Pin Your Go-To Apps: Right-click any app and choose Pin to Start for easy access. 

• Create App Folders: Drag apps on top of each other to group them in folders. Label them to stay organized. 

• Tweak the Layout: Go to Settings > Personalization > Start to adjust what you see and how it looks. 

2. Virtual Desktops = Organized Chaos 

Separate work and play (or whatever you need) with virtual desktops. 

• Make a New Desktop: Click the Task View button or press Win + Tab, then hit New Desktop. 

• Flip Between Desktops: Use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow to move between them. 

3. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups 

Multitask like a pro! Snap windows side by side to save time and skip the constant app-switching. 

• Try Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on any window to pick a layout. 

• Create Snap Groups: Arrange your windows and let Windows 11 remember the layout for quick access later. 

4. Focus Assist: Block the Noise 

Need to concentrate? Focus Assist filters out distractions. 

• Turn It On: Search “Focus” in the taskbar and tweak your settings. Start a session to block notifications. 

• Set Rules: Automate it for certain times—like during meetings or gaming sessions. 

5. Widgets: Info at a Glance 

Widgets keep you updated without switching apps. 

• Open Widgets: Click the widget icon on the taskbar or press Win + W. 

• Customize Them: Add, remove, or resize widgets to fit your style. 

6. Taskbar Tweaks 

A clean taskbar = a happy workflow. 

• Pin Must-Use Apps: Right-click and pin your faves. 

• Hide the Extras: Right-click the taskbar, head to Taskbar settings, and declutter. 

7. Keyboard Shortcuts for the Win 

Save time with these handy shortcuts: 

• Win + E: Open File Explorer. 

• Win + L: Lock your PC. 

• Alt + Tab: Switch between apps like a boss. 

8. Power & Battery Tricks 

Stretch your battery life or amp up your performance. 

• Choose a Power Mode: Go to Settings > System > Power & battery and pick what works for you. 

• Battery Saver Mode: Enable it when you’re running low. 

9. Clean Up with Storage Sense 

Keep your PC clutter-free. 

• Turn It On: Head to Settings > System > Storage and enable Storage Sense. 

• Set Auto-Clean Rules: Schedule cleanups for temp files, old downloads, and more. 

10. Accessibility Features 

Windows 11 is for everyone, and its accessibility tools can make life easier: 

• Magnifier: Zoom in by pressing Win + Plus. 

• Narrator: Let Windows read text aloud. 

• High Contrast Mode: Great for better visibility. 

Need More IT Productivity Hacks? 

We’ve got plenty more tips to share! Whether you’re setting up Windows 11 or optimizing your workflow, we’re here to help. 

Reach out today for a chat with our tech experts and let’s make your digital life easier! 

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.