22 Essential Tips & Tricks to Master Windows 11

Windows 11 has arrived, and you may still be wondering: "What exactly makes it different from Windows 10?" Whether you're a new user or an experienced one, this guide highlights 22 fantastic tips and tricks you can try in Windows 11 to make the most of Microsoft's latest OS. Windows 11 isn’t just about sleek visuals; it’s a productivity powerhouse packed with user-friendly tools and features.
Let’s break down these tips in detail along with explanations to help you master Windows 11.

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1. Move the Start Menu to the Left or Center​

The New Start Menu Perspective​

One of the biggest aesthetic shifts in Windows 11 is relocating the Start Menu to the center. While this modernized design might click with some users, others may crave the traditional left-aligned option. Thankfully, Microsoft has made it flexible.
Steps to Adjust the Start Menu Position:

• Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
• Under Taskbar behaviors, select Center or Left for the Start Menu.

This tweak lets you decide the menu’s look and feel—center for futuristic vibes or left-aligned for classic muscle memory.

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2. Use Snap Windows​

Windows Organization at Its Peak​

If multitasking is your thing, the revamped Snap feature will blow your mind. It lets you snap open windows into layouts seamlessly, making workspaces cleaner and more efficient.
How to Enable Snap Windows:

1. Navigate to Settings > System > Multitasking.
2. Toggle on Snap Windows and check Show snap layouts when I hover a window’s maximize button.

Hover over the maximize button to see layout options, ideal for multitasking with different screen sizes. Think of it as decluttering your digital workflow with a snap (literally).

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3. Get Rid of the Chat and Widget Apps​

Declutter Your Taskbar​

Windows 11 comes with "Chat" (powered by Teams) and "Widgets" by default on the taskbar. While helpful, these might hog vital real estate for some users.
Disabling Chat and Widgets:

• Head to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar.
• Turn off both Chat and Widgets.

Customize your taskbar for a cleaner and leaner experience.

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4. Reduce Distractions with Focus Assist​

Is your screen bombarded with notifications while you’re trying to hustle? Enter Focus Assist, your productivity savior. Use it to block unwanted notifications.
Activating Focus Sessions:

1. Go to Settings > System > Focus.
2. Start a focus session and customize which notifications (if any) get through.

Microsoft understands the art of concentration, so this feature lets you tune out distractions effortlessly.

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5. Title Bar Window Shake​

Remember Aero Shake from Windows 10? It’s back in Windows 11 under a stealthy name: Title Bar Window Shake. Shake a window using the title bar, and all other windows will minimize.
How to Enable It:

• Navigate to Settings > System > Multitasking.
• Toggle on Title bar windows shake.

A quirky and quick way to clear desktop clutter.

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6. Use the Old Right-Click Menu​

The new right-click menu in Windows 11 looks sleek but hides some frequently used options under “Show More Options.” If this extra click is slowing you down, here’s the shortcut:

• Press Shift + F10 to instantly access the old menu.

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7. Turn on Dark Mode​

Who doesn’t love a moody aesthetic? The infamous Dark Mode is alive and kicking in Windows 11.
To Enable Dark Mode:

• Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
• Switch to Dark under "Choose your mode."

Save your eyes and add a touch of elegance to your desktop.

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8. Quickly Access Task Manager​

Right-clicking the taskbar to launch the Task Manager is gone! However, it’s still easy to access.
Steps:

• Right-click the Start menu.
• Select Task Manager.

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9. Add Folders to Start Menu​

Windows 11 lets you personalize your Start Menu by adding quick access folders.
How to Add Folders:

• Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Start > Folders.
• Toggle on your preferred folders like Downloads or Document.

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10. Customize Quick Settings​

Quick Settings gets a revamp, making toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and more simple to access.
Steps:

• Open Quick Settings via Windows + A.
• Customize it via the Edit button.

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Other Tips (Highlights):​

1. Discover New Touch Gestures: Swipe gestures for multitasking on touchscreen devices.
2. Choose a Theme: Personalize quickly under Settings > Personalization.
3. Change Default Apps: Control which programs handle specific file extensions.
4. Adjust the Recommended Section: Stop Start Menu from showing recent activity.
5. Pin Apps to Start Menu: Right-click apps for quick access.
6. Access the Secret Start Menu: Open hidden tools via Windows + X.
7. Customize the Touch Keyboard: Perfect for touch-screen laptops.
8. Take Screenshots Effortlessly: Use PrtScr, Snipping Tool, or shortcuts.
9. Sync Clipboard Across Devices: Enable it under Settings > Clipboard.
10. Trim Videos with Photos App: Edit videos without downloading third-party apps.
11. Night Light Schedule: Filter blue light during late-night sessions.
12. Emoji Picker Overhaul: Add GIFs and Kaomoji for better virtual conversations.

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Wrapping Up: Make Windows 11 Yours​

Each of these tips enhances your experience by optimizing speed, aesthetics, and workflows. Whether you're a Windows veteran or new to Microsoft's ecosystem, tinkering with these tricks can elevate your OS game. Try them all to truly harness the magic of Windows 11.
Don't forget to share your favorite tip below—let’s compare notes!

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Source: Tech Tribune France Cool Things To Do In Windows 11 OS (22 Best Tips And Tricks)