Unlocking the Best of Windows 11: Top Tips and Tricks

a laptop computer sitting on top of a desk

Windows 11 has a new look but maintains much of the core functionality of Windows 10, with some exciting new features and settings to explore. If you’re new to Windows 11, here are some top tips and tricks. Microsoft continues to enhance Windows 11, so watch for upcoming features and updates.

1. Move the Start Button

In Windows 11, the Start button is centered on the taskbar. If you prefer the traditional left-aligned position, you can change it. Right-click the taskbar, select Taskbar Settings, and adjust the Taskbar Alignment to Left under Taskbar Behaviors. This will move the Start button and other taskbar icons to the left side.

2. Use Copilot for Text and Image Generation

Microsoft Copilot is a versatile tool for generating text and images. Access it by clicking the colorful icon on the taskbar or pressing Windows Key-C. You can use voice commands to instruct it, and it can assist with tasks like writing code, summarizing documents, and creating images. Recent updates allow integration with plugins such as OpenTable for reservations and Kayak for travel planning. If you don’t want to use Copilot, disable it in Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.

3. Personalize the Quick Settings Panel

Windows 11 separates Quick Settings from notifications for easier access. Click the taskbar area with the Wi-Fi, speaker, and battery icons to open Quick Settings. Customize this panel by clicking the pencil-shaped Edit button, adding or removing settings as needed.

4. Manage Multiple Desktops

The Task View button in Windows 11 has been redesigned to make it easier to create and manage multiple desktops. Hover over the Task View icon to see open virtual desktops or create new ones. Personalize each desktop with different wallpapers by right-clicking the desktop, selecting Personalize, and then choosing Background.

5. Use Widgets for Quick Information

Widgets in Windows 11 provide quick access to information such as weather, sports scores, stock prices, and more. Customize your widgets by clicking the taskbar icon and adding third-party widgets from services like Spotify and Facebook Messenger.

6. Experiment with Snap Layouts

Snap Layouts in Windows 11 enhance the window-snapping feature with multiple layout options available when you hover over the Maximize button. Choose from various configurations to organize your windows efficiently. Keyboard shortcuts like Windows Key-Left Arrow also help with snapping windows quickly.

7. Link Your Phone for Texts and Calls

The Phone Link app in Windows 11 lets you connect your smartphone to your PC. This connection allows you to see phone notifications, reply to texts, and make calls from your computer. Android users get additional features such as photo access, using the phone as a hotspot, and running phone apps on the PC.

8. Enhance Security with Passkeys

Windows 11 supports passkeys, a more secure alternative to passwords. These passkeys can be stored on your device or accessed from other devices like smartphones, utilizing Windows Hello for authentication via PIN, facial recognition, or fingerprint.

9. Stay Focused with Focus Sessions

Focus Sessions in the Alarms & Clock app help you stay productive by minimizing distractions. Set a focus period of at least 30 minutes, and the app will schedule breaks for longer sessions. This feature is designed to enhance your concentration during work.

10. Utilize Tabs in File Explorer

The 22H2 update introduced tabs in File Explorer, similar to those in web browsers. This feature reduces desktop clutter by allowing multiple folder views within a single window. You can drag files between tabs, rearrange tabs, and use shortcuts like Alt-Left Arrow to navigate within tabs.

11. Access the Full App List

To view all installed apps in Windows 11, click the All Apps button in the Start menu’s Pinned section. Browse or search for specific apps, and click a letter to jump to apps starting with that letter.

12. Pin Apps to the Start Menu

Pinning apps to the Start menu has replaced Live Tiles. Right-click an app in the App List, select Pin to Start, and arrange it in the Pinned section. You can also create folders by dragging icons together and adjust the sizes of Pinned and Recommended icons.

Explore these features to get the most out of your Windows 11 experience and stay updated with the latest enhancements from Microsoft.