Despite years of familiarity with Windows, its vast array of options often hides practical tools that can enhance daily use, streamline tasks, or add enjoyment to computing. We've identified ten lesser-known capabilities that could optimize your workflow, improve usability, or simply make interactions smoother on your computer.
These functions are compatible with Windows 10 and 11, and testing each requires only moments. Let's dive in, presented without a specific sequence:
When setting up a fresh computer, enabling this option ranks high on my priorities. Though categorized under accessibility aids, it proves beneficial for users regardless of physical limitations. The feature lets you select a window by simply positioning the mouse pointer over it, eliminating the need for an initial click to engage with the application. Such a subtle adjustment yields significant convenience, particularly when navigating via a laptop's touchpad.
To enable it, navigate to the Control Panel and open the Ease of Access Center. Select 'Make the mouse easier to use.' In the section for 'Make it easier to manage windows,' check 'Activate a window by hovering over it with the mouse.' Confirm with Okay to apply.
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Recent Windows editions simplify repositioning open applications across the display. Press and hold the Windows key while using the arrow keys. Left or right arrows snap the window to the respective screen half. Up or down arrows toggle between quarter-screen placements, full maximization, or minimization to the taskbar.
This method extends to setups with multiple displays, offering an efficient means to organize content across them with little physical input.
For swift access to frequently used applications, many keep them pinned to the taskbar. To launch them even quicker, combine the Windows key with the numeric key matching their taskbar position. For example, on my setup, Chrome launches via Windows + 1, and Photoshop via Windows + 5.
Regarding the taskbar, the notification area on the far right can become congested with numerous small icons, especially from auto-starting applications. To declutter, simply drag icons to reorder them. Options include moving some to the collapsible arrow menu for concealment (expand the arrow to view), or positioning others for constant display.
For those extending computer sessions into the night, activating the integrated night light mode provides a gentle safeguard for eye health. Search the Start menu for 'Night light' to access the controls that reduce screen brightness and filter out blue light. Once configured, activate it via the quick actions panel (Windows + A) or schedule automatic activation during evening hours and deactivation in the morning.
This longstanding shortcut gains added value through enhancements in the Task Manager for Windows 10 and 11. From within any application, use Ctrl + Shift + Escape to launch it. Here, you can terminate unresponsive processes, invoke the Run dialog, or inspect the Startup tab to identify and disable boot-launching software.
It's essential to adopt the enhanced Snipping Tool in Windows, which builds on the basic Print Screen capture by offering versatile options. Invoke it with Windows + Shift + S to choose capturing the full desktop, a single window, or a custom shape via mouse selection. The captured image copies to the clipboard for immediate use in documents or editors.
For urgent needs, traditional full-screen captures (saved to Pictures > Screenshots) remain available via Windows + Print Screen. Alternatively, Ctrl + Print Screen copies the entire screen, while Alt + Print Screen targets only the active window.
A minor yet impactful modification involves refining the uninstallation search process to prioritize recent additions easily. This simplifies locating and removing newly added software. Press the Windows key, type 'Add or remove programs,' and select it to access the apps list in Settings.
Earlier Windows releases required manual scanning of the alphabetical inventory. Current versions allow keyword searches, but name variations can complicate matters. To resolve, sort by clicking 'Name' then 'Install date,' arranging entries from newest to oldest. Use the three-dot icon beside any item to initiate removal—a straightforward process.
Windows typically detects and activates attached external displays automatically. Should it fail, a fast solution exists via Windows + P, which summons the Project menu. Choices include Duplicating the primary display on the secondary, Extending across both for expanded workspace, or using Only the second screen (useful for monitor-only operation without the laptop display).
This interface excels in multi-display environments, allowing rapid toggling of additional screens—ideal for immersive activities like films or gaming—before restoring them post-session without navigating deeper settings.
While resolution adjustments alter visual scaling in Windows, modern flat-panel screens perform best at their native settings; deviations often cause distortion or suboptimal quality.
Rather than altering resolution, access Display Settings, locate the Scale option below, and adjust it to enlarge or shrink on-screen elements while preserving image clarity. Defaults increment by 25%, with custom percentages available after a restart. A separate control exists for text sizing alone.
Certain applications, such as web browsers or document handlers, feature independent zoom and font adjustments. Experiment to achieve the ideal viewing setup.
To enlarge or reduce icon sizes within File Explorer views, employ this handy method: Hold Ctrl and roll the mouse wheel forward or backward. Icons respond by scaling accordingly, and extreme scrolling shifts the layout from detailed previews to icon lists. This technique applies directly to the desktop as well, without an open Explorer instance.
Beyond File Explorer, the Ctrl + wheel combination serves zooming purposes in various software, including web browsers, email programs, photo viewers, and writing tools, making it a versatile skill to master.
This collection of Windows enhancements wraps up here. For deeper exploration, consider our guides on 10 essential yet unfamiliar Windows utilities, strategies for maximizing Windows productivity, and solutions to common Windows 11 irritations.
With a decade in tech reporting, Michael covers a broad spectrum from Apple products to ZTE devices. At PCWorld, he specializes in keyboards, frequently testing models and customizing mechanical setups or enhancing his workstation. His work has appeared in Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, including on-site coverage of CES and Mobile World Congress. Based in Pennsylvania, he eagerly anticipates his upcoming kayaking outings.