Windows 11 comes with an alluring fresh look, improved performance, and new features. Microsoft has worked hard to ensure that new features will work towards improving the user experience. MacBooks have a sleek design and fast, dependable performance. However, many users are unable to unlock their full potential.
Tech-savvy individuals and people looking to improve their productivity can learn about the Windows 11 tips and tricks to ensure that usage of the computer and laptop is the most beneficial. This guide discusses the most remarkable tips and features to ensure that the user’s Windows 11 experience is greatly enhanced.
Overview of Windows 11: What You Need to Know
The most recent upgrade to Microsoft’s ever-popular operating system is Windows 11, which comes with a new interface and features. Windows 11 focuses and boosts productivity and multitasking with a comprehensive redesign of the Start menu, taskbar, and virtual desktops. These newly added functionalities greatly improve workplace and personal usage for organized multitasking.
Windows 11 is also known for its swift and secure features, which is a bonus for the users. These features are best supported by newer hardware, high refresh rate displays, and virtual reality. Furthermore, the operating system is designed to better support productivity and performance features such as gaming, system performance, and multitasking.
Best Windows 11 Features to Help Increase Productivity
Like in any new operating system, Windows 11 has some features which, if used properly, can significantly enhance one’s work productivity. Windows 11 tricks can indeed bring about qualitative changes to the user’s experience. To that end, let us discuss some Windows 11 secrets and to offer some tips that can greatly enhance productivity.
Snap Layouts as Windows 11 Multitasking
Many app users can attest that Windows 11 has indeed enhanced the user experience thanks to the new Snap feature. Windows 11’s Snap Layouts feature lets users organize the open windows into any of a number of grid patterns, which improves multitasking. Here’s how to use it:
Start multiple applications or windows and have them open on your screen. Then, move your mouse to the maximize button on any one window towards the top right corner, as is shown in the below screenshot.
You will notice a grid with a number of layout options. In the case that you need a prompt to remember the shortcut, it is hovering over the maximize button.
Now, let us walk through the steps to arrange your windows.
After window selection, select one of the layouts that appeal to you and then click on it. Your selection will snap into place as shown.
After the selection is made, there will further be a number of empty slots to complete the shape. To fill in these spots, grab the remaining windows and drag them to the appropriate place.
Completing these steps will set you up for a richer experience with Windows 11.
Windows 11 for Professional Virtual Desktops
To add a new workspace, click New Desktop at the top of the screen.
You may switch between desktops by clicking the Task View button or by using the Win + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow keys.
Each of the desktops manages separate apps and layouts; thus, you are able to separate your professional and personal tasks.
Using this ensures that your productivity is maximized and that you are able to decrease distractions during work.
With New Widgets, Access Information Instantly
To enable Widgets, click on the Widgets icon on the taskbar. As with the previous versions of Windows, Windows 11 also brings with it news, weather, and even calendar events at the fingertips of a user. Moreover, there is an option to enable weather alerts as well.
Like all other apps, widgets are customizable. From the menu you may select news alerts and calendar events along with a to-do list. Simply press the three dots at the corner of each widget to customize it.
You only need to click a couple of times to customize your widgets and fetch all the information you need without having to browse through multiple apps and websites.
Fast Text Entry Using Voice Typing
For fast and efficient voice typing, press the Win and H keys at the same time.
Make sure to press the microphone button to begin speaking.
With clear pronunciation, automated speech recognition will transcribe your words into the text box.
For those who prefer dictation, this method is particularly useful, as it saves time and improves productivity.
Taskbar Settings
There have been significant changes to the taskbar in Windows 11. The Start button, along with other icons, is now centered on the taskbar. Taskbar settings can now be adjusted to better fit your preferences.
Simply right-click the taskbar and select Taskbar Settings.
In this menu, you can modify icon alignment, hide or show system tray icons, and even customize taskbar buttons.
You can also adjust the transparency of the taskbar, which will give it a more sleek appearance.
With these changes, you have the ability to create a fully customized taskbar to fit your needs.
Benefits of Windows 11
In addition to new features in Windows 11, there are also numerous benefits that current and new users will appreciate.
Increased Speed: Windows 11 has optimized system performance, providing quicker boot up times and low CPU usage on routine tasks.
Enhanced Gaming: DirectStorage, a new feature of Windows 11, greatly improves load times for games. Supported titles also benefit from Auto HDR, which enhances their visuals.
Enhanced Security: With TPM 2.0, Windows 11 has improved defenses against cybersecurity threats and malware.
User Experience Improvements: The refined and modern Windows 11 UI is more user-friendly and provides a better overall experience.
Enhanced Multitasking: Managing multiple tasks is made easier with features like Snap Layouts and virtual desktops.
These features highlight the advantages of Windows 11, making it an operating system with powerful capabilities and substantial enhancements compared to its predecessors.
Disadvantages of Windows 11
Regardless of the advantages, there are several factors to reconsider before making the jump to Windows 11.
System Requirements: The operating system demands newer hardware, including a TPM 2.0 chip, secure boot capabilities, and specific processor requirements. Because of these factors, older devices may not be able to upgrade.
Incompatibility with Older Software: The use of older software may result in functionality problems due to incompatibility with the new operating system.
Adjustment Period: Although the new Windows 11 interface is an improvement, users accustomed to older Windows versions will require time to adapt to the new features and layout.
Reduced Flexibility in Taskbar Customization: Windows 11 has some new features that enhance customization, however, compared to earlier versions of Windows, it offers less flexibility in customization overall.
Prior to transitioning to Windows 11, these drawbacks should be kept in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps should I follow to enable Windows 11 dark mode?
Access dark mode by navigating to Settings > Personalization > Colors, then select Dark in the “Choose your color” dropdown.
Does Windows 11 run on older PCs?
With TPM 2.0 and a compatible processor, Windows 11 demands certain hardware keystones. Microsoft’s compatibility tool is the go to resource to determine your device’s eligibility.
What steps should I take to acquire Windows 11 at no cost?
Provided your desktop is equipped with Windows 10 and satisfies the minimum specification criteria, upgrading to Windows 11 is free through the Windows Update tool.
What is the purpose of the Snap Layout feature in Windows 11?
While multitasking, Snap Layouts enhances the capability to manage multiple windows by snapping them into a grid. Available layout options can be viewed by hovering on the maximize button.
Does Windows 11 outperform Windows 10 for gaming?
Certainly, Windows 11 far outshines its predecessor with new gaming features like DirectStorage and Auto HDR that greatly enhance gaming experience and performance by leaps and bounds.
How Do I Reset Windows 11 Back to Factory Settings?
To reset Windows 11, navigate to Settings, then System, followed by Recovery, and finally select Reset Windows 11.
Conclusion
The addition of Windows 11 completes the Microsoft operating system family. Snap Layouts, Virtual Desktops, and other features polish the ergonomics of the system, showing Windows 11 aims to enhance user productivity and efficiency at work. From the perspective of a gamer, an employee, or someone browsing the Internet, the productivity hacks offered for Windows 11 can improve the user’s interaction with technology.
If your system specs meet the criteria, then making the leap to Windows 11 should definitely be on your to-do list. Besides the productivity hacks offered within the guide, the operating system has a lot more to offer, and we hope users take the time to explore and discover all the offerings at their fingertips. With the guide at hand, users can effortlessly maneuver Windows 11 while leveraging all the features the new system has to offer.
