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
January 27, 2026
From Pay-As-You-Go to Paying Too Much
When businesses first migrate to the cloud, the promise is almost always the same: limitless scalability, faster innovation, and lower upfront costs. Unfortunately, that pay-as-you-go dream can quickly turn into a pay-more-than-you-thought nightmare. Recent industry data suggests that organizations typically overspend by 25-to-35 percent on their cloud resources. Without visibility, you aren’t just paying for what you use; you’re paying for what you forgot you were using.
January 20, 2026
Don't Let AI Turn Your Company Into a Ghost Ship
Ubiquitous technology, used correctly, makes your business a powerhouse. Used poorly, it turns your company into a ghost ship, technically efficient but completely disconnected from your customers.
January 17, 2026
Beyond the Vault: The Business Case for Password Manager Integration
The password has long been the most important security tool because it is the most widely used. From a backend perspective, integrating a password manager isn't just as a digital vault, it helps build a comprehensive security framework.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation for VA, DC and MD companies. 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