Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
How to Get a Handle on Windows 11

How to Get a Handle on Windows 11

November 4, 2024

Windows 11 has some cool tools that can make it easier to use, especially if you set things up to fit how you like to work or play. Here are four easy tips to help you organize your Windows desktop and get things done faster.

Try Using Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops let you set up multiple desktops, each with its own open apps. This way, you can keep work or school stuff on one desktop and fun stuff on another, so things don’t get mixed up.

To make a new virtual desktop:

  • Press Windows + Tab to open Task View.
  • Click New Desktop at the bottom.

You can switch between desktops by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow. This makes it easier to keep things organized and less cluttered.

Customize Your Start Menu and Taskbar

The Start Menu and Taskbar are where you go to open your favorite programs, so why not set them up how you like?

To pin your most-used apps to the Start Menu:

  • Right-click the app and choose Pin to Start.

To change the Taskbar:

  • Right-click it and select Taskbar settings.

You can make the icons smaller, hide the Taskbar when you don’t need it, and even choose whether to show the search bar. Or, to add a program to the Taskbar quickly, just drag it down there.

Use Snap Assist to Arrange Your Windows

Snap Assist helps you keep your screen neat when you have a bunch of windows open.

To use Snap Assist:

  • Drag a window to any edge of the screen, and it will “snap” into place.
  • To snap windows quickly, press Windows + Left/Right Arrow to snap it to the side.

You can even snap up to four windows by moving them to the corners of the screen.

Try Keyboard Shortcuts and PowerToys

Keyboard shortcuts can help you move around Windows super fast. Here are a couple of useful ones:

  • Windows + D - Show or hide the desktop.
  • Alt + Tab - Switch quickly between open apps.

You can also check out PowerToys, a free tool with extra features like window management and custom shortcuts. Make sure you check in with your business’ IT resource for assistance in enabling all this.

With these tips, you’ll be using Windows like a pro in no time.

Previous Post
September 2, 2026
What Happens When Your Business Server Dies?
When a central server dies, your business operations come to a complete standstill. Most owners take comfort in knowing they have a nightly backup running in the background. However, having your files saved on an offsite drive is only half of the equation when downtime strikes.
August 31, 2026
Stop Overspending and Get More Value From Your Current Technology
Imagine buying a state-of-the-art sports car, leaving it in second gear, and using the back seat purely to store groceries. It sounds absurd, but that is precisely how millions of growing businesses approach their technology every day.
August 28, 2026
You Could Convert Even Enterprise Clientele with One Simple Adjustment
Small businesses miss out on lucrative enterprise contracts every day for reasons unrelated to their core services. The deal usually stalls when the big prospect hands over a vendor security questionnaire, and the SMB blinks.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here