7 Incredibly Useful Windows 10 Tricks to Learn

July 3, 2024

7 Incredibly Useful Windows 10 Tricks to Learn

Navigating a new operating system can be daunting, especially with the increasing complexity of modern computers. Whether you’re new to Windows 10 or looking to optimize your experience, these tips will help you get the most out of your system.

Here are some essential Windows 10 tricks to streamline your work and make your daily tasks easier.

1. Quick Access to Your Desktop
If you often have multiple windows open, this trick will save you time. In the bottom right corner of the desktop, next to the notification bubble, there’s a tiny sliver of a button. Clicking this button will instantly take you to your desktop.

2. Clear Clutter Fast
For those who slow down their computer with too many open windows, this tip is a lifesaver. Click on the window you want to keep open, then grab the top of the window with your mouse and give it a shake. This action will minimize all other open windows. Shake it again to restore them.

3. Determine What Programs Are Slowing You Down
If your computer is sluggish, you need to identify the culprit. Open the Task Manager and click on the Processes tab. Here, you can see which applications and background processes are running and how much CPU, memory, and network resources each one is consuming.

4. Personalize Your Start Screen
Click the Windows button in the bottom left corner to access your Start menu. From here, you can see your most-used applications and access them easily. Right-click icons to personalize the menu by resizing them, unpinning them, or pinning them to your taskbar for quick access.

5. Personalize Your Taskbar
Just like the Start screen, your taskbar can be customized. Pin frequently used applications to your taskbar for one-click access. You can also pin contacts you frequently communicate with through the People app.

6. Share Easier
Sharing documents or photos with nearby devices is simple with the Nearby Sharing feature, similar to Apple’s AirDrop. Click the “Share” button at the top of your document or image to open a panel. Turn on Nearby Sharing to send files to nearby devices. The recipient must be nearby to receive the files.

7. Access Smart Home Devices
Cortana, Windows’ voice-controlled virtual assistant, can help you manage your smart home devices. Click on Cortana from the Start menu, then click the Manage Skills tab at the top of the window. From the Connected Home option, log into your smart devices like Nest, Hue, and Honeywell. Once connected, you can use voice commands like, “Hey Cortana, set the thermostat to 73 degrees.”