Even veteran Windows PC users might overlook some remarkable features that can enhance their computing experience. This oversight is understandable, as these tools often hide within system settings or are overshadowed by more well-known applications. Nevertheless, your Windows 11 system is equipped with functions that can significantly boost productivity, enhance organizational skills, and simplify daily tasks.
From instant file sharing to managing multiple workspaces and personalizing touch gestures, these built-in capabilities can transform your daily PC usage. Let’s explore some of the most beneficial yet underappreciated features available in Windows 11.
8. Nearby Sharing
Effortlessly Send Files to Nearby PCs
Have you ever struggled with USB drives or resorted to emailing files just to share something with a nearby PC? The Nearby Sharing feature allows for quick and wireless file transfers between laptops without the hassle of additional apps. This feature employs a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to locate nearby devices, enabling seamless file sharing.
To initiate, simply activate Nearby Sharing on both devices and select your sharing preferences. Right-click on the desired file and choose Share to see a list of available devices. A simple click, and your file is sent without delay. While it may not be ideal for transferring large files rapidly, it’s highly effective for small documents, images, or quick file exchanges.
7. Virtual Desktops
Establish Multiple Desktops for Various Needs
If you wish to enjoy multiple screens without investing in additional monitors, virtual desktops are your solution. This feature allows you to create distinct workspaces, each tailored for specific tasks, all within a single PC. You might maintain one desktop for work-related applications, another for personal browsing, and an additional one for research projects.
Switching between these desktops is seamless, enabled through the Task View button or the keyboard shortcuts Win + Ctrl + Left or Right Arrow. With virtual desktops, you can maintain an organized workspace without cluttering your screen and even customize wallpapers for each desktop, ensuring efficient multitasking.
6. Snap Layouts
Master Window Organization
Among Windows’ multitasking tools, Snap Layouts stands out as a game-changer. If you frequently find yourself fighting to arrange multiple windows on your desktop, this feature can streamline your workflow. By hovering over the maximize button of any window, you’ll access a grid of layout options for quick snaps.
This allows you to position your windows effortlessly, whether to half, a quarter, or even a third of the screen. Personally, I leverage this capability for tasks like writing a document while testing applications, which keeps all relevant information visible and orderly. Additionally, you can also manage Snap Layouts with keyboard commands using Win + Arrow Keys.
5. Customizable Touchpad Gestures
Enhance Navigation with Gestures
Your laptop’s touchpad is more than just a navigation tool; it can enhance your efficiency significantly. Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad to explore a range of customizable gestures.
For example, three- and four-finger swipes can be configured to switch apps, go to the desktop, or open virtual desktops. Additionally, tapping can trigger actions such as opening notifications or launching Windows Search. Once you integrate these gestures into your workflow, you’ll realize just how limiting traditional navigation methods can be.
4. Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
If you frequently capture images of documents or notes for easy access, the Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature in Windows is invaluable. This tool lets you extract text from images with ease.
To utilize this feature, take a screenshot or upload an image containing text, and activate the OCR function in the Snipping Tool or the Photos app. In mere moments, Windows extracts the text, making it available for you to use elsewhere. This capability is especially powerful with images of PDFs or webpages, and it even accommodates multiple languages, extending beyond just English.
3. Clipboard History
Revamp Your Copy-Paste Efficiency
We often perform copy-and-paste actions throughout our work, but the traditional clipboard only retains the last copied item. With Windows Clipboard History, you can keep track of all your copied items, from text to images, enabling greater efficiency.
To activate it, navigate to Settings > System > Clipboard and enable the feature. Pressing Win + V thereafter opens a panel showcasing your recent copied items, allowing you to paste any of them or pin favorites for quick access. This is particularly beneficial for projects requiring research or writing, especially if you’re juggling multiple snippets. Clipboard history can even sync across multiple devices if you use several PCs.
2. Dynamic Lock
Automatically Secure Your PC
Dynamic Lock is one of those ingenious features that you’ll appreciate once you experience its convenience. This functionality locks your PC automatically when you step away, providing an added layer of security.
Utilizing Bluetooth technology, Windows identifies when your phone moves out of range and locks your device accordingly. To set this up, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and enable Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away. The setup requires pairing your phone with your PC, but once done, you can enjoy effortless security.
1. Taskbar Keyboard Shortcuts
Boost Your Workflow with Quick App Access
While pinning your essential applications to the taskbar is a great way to access them easily, you might be missing out if you rely solely on clicks. Windows offers handy keyboard shortcuts for launching pinned apps effortlessly.
By pressing Windows + a number key (1–9), you can directly open the corresponding pinned app based on its order on the taskbar. For instance, Windows + 1 opens the first app, while Windows + 2 launches the second one. Moreover, if the application is already running, this shortcut brings it to the forefront; if it’s not, it starts it immediately.
To further enhance your experience, try holding down Shift + Windows + a number key to open a new instance of the app or Ctrl + Shift + Windows + a number key to run it with elevated privileges. These keyboard shortcuts are your best allies for enhancing productivity, and while they might take some time to memorize, the efficiency gains are well worth the effort.
Many users aren’t aware of the rich array of built-in features that Windows offers, often opting for third-party applications. Yet, with the tools already embedded within Windows, you can drastically improve your work and multitasking capabilities. Embrace these hidden gems to unlock a more productive computing experience.
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