In 2021, Microsoft officially released Windows 11, the latest version of its signature operating system (OS). Windows 11 features several improvements over its predecessor, especially in terms of user experience, security, and performance. If you're new to Windows 11 or considering upgrading from Windows 10, here are some productivity-boosting tips and tricks to get the most out of the new OS.
Change the Start button's position
One of the most immediately noticeable changes in Windows 11 is the position of the Start button. It is now located at the center of the taskbar, instead of being at the bottom-left corner as it was with most previous versions of Windows. If you're more comfortable with the traditional layout, right-click on an empty space on the taskbar and select Taskbar Settings. Open the Taskbar behaviors drop-down menu and change Taskbar alignment to Left.
Organize your widgets
Windows 11 features a Widgets panel where you can customize the type of information you want quick access to. For instance, you can add traffic updates, the latest news, a to-do list, or your Outlook calendar. You can also change the widgets' sizes and move them around the panel so that you see the ones that offer the information you need the most first.
Switch between desktops
You can multitask faster and more efficiently by using a separate virtual desktop for each individual task. Windows 11 made this easier by improving the Task View function that was introduced in Windows 10. When you hover over the Task View button (the overlapping black and white squares) on the taskbar, you can see a panel of all your active desktops. You can then select, add, or remove desktops from this panel.
Customize your Quick Settings
The Quick Settings panel, found near the bottom-right corner of the screen, gives you fast access to some of the most commonly used functions in Windows 11. These include volume, screen brightness, battery mode, and network connections. You can access the panel by clicking on the spot with the connectivity, sound, and battery icons. If you want to add new buttons, click on the pencil icon at the bottom of the panel and then go to Add. Select the buttons you want and then click Done. To disable buttons, go to the icon you want to remove and click the unpin icon.
Work without interruptions
If you want to focus on a task but are constantly distracted by notifications popping up on your screen, Focus Sessions can be a huge help. This feature allows you to block notifications and messages for 30 minutes or more. If you set the Focus Timer for more than 45 minutes, the feature will automatically assign you a five-minute break halfway through the session. Focus Sessions is accessible via the Clock app.
Pin your favorite apps
Windows 11 lets you pin the apps you use frequently to the Start menu. To pin an app, open the Start menu by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard or clicking on the Start button. Click on All apps and find your app. Right-click on the app icon and select Pin to Start. To remove a pinned app, right-click on the app you want to remove on the taskbar and click Unpin from Start.
Many of Windows 11's new features are designed to help users save time. If you want to learn more about how Windows 11 can empower your team, our experts at Quicktech will be glad to assist.
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