Windows is constantly evolving, and while Windows 11 is the latest operating system, some have been left behind and remain stuck on 10. However, if you don’t mind abiding by Windows 10, there are some hidden gems that will blow your mind.
So, whether you are a seasoned Windows user or dipping your toes into the said OS, you can teach an old dog new tricks. In this guide, we have divulged some tricks that are bound to enhance your user experience and improve productivity simultaneously, so join us on a whistlestop tour of all things Windows.
Capture your desktop in one click
It is a myth that you have to minimize all your open windows just so you can view your desktop. With Windows 10, there’s a little button lurking in the bottom-right corner of the taskbar. Yes, go beyond the date and time, and here, you can click to minimize all your open windows at once.
Well, it will certainly make things look a little less cluttered, but if you wish to restore everything, then click the button back. You can also select your preference in Settings by pressing Personalization and Taskbar to sort out the layout of your desktop.
Going beyond basic copy and paste in Clipboard
The clipboard may feel like a magic wand for those who have never used it before, especially those who tend to copy and paste. Flipping back and forth between windows to copy and paste may seem like an arduous task, but you don’t have to worry about that anymore.
Simply pressing Win and V will bring up your clipboard, and this feature will keep all your items, text, and images you copied. You can also pin your items, so don’t forget to activate this in the clipboard settings.
Go full God Mode
God Mode sounds rather epic, doesn’t it? But this hidden folder will give you the ultimate control panel, housing nearly every setting and control in one place. For many, this will be a huge time saver, and to enable it, you can right-click on your desktop, create a new folder, and rename it “God Mode”.
Once you hit enter, the folder icon changes, and inside, you will have access to a powerful, centralized control panel. This is a game-changer by all accounts, and for those seeking the best windows tips, then God Mode fits the bill. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed when you use God Mode.
Connecting to new screens
Sometimes, your single desktop may seem a little cramped, littered with too many open apps and windows. But this is where the Virtual Desktop comes in. This feature will be a lifesaver for some as you can create multiple desktops for different purposes.
To create a new desktop, just press Win and Tab, then click on the new desktop option on your screen. By doing so, you can switch between desktops easily, and you can organize tasks, focusing on more time-sensitive ones.
Minimize distractions
In a world where there are constant notifications and distractions, it’s all too easy to procrastinate. However, with focus assist, you can put a ‘Do not disturb’ sign on your digital life.
You can, of course, tailor things so you can allow only priority notifications or mute notifications altogether. To implement Focus Assist, you can head over to System Settings, find Focus Assist, and set automatic rules based on your schedule. This handy tool is certainly worth using.
Be more storage savvy with Automatic Space Management
There are those of us who will be constantly fretting about file sizes and disk space, however, Storage Space is essentially your digital guardian. This feature will automatically free up space by cleaning files you don’t use, such as temporary items, and placing them in your recycle bin.
Anyway, to activate Storage Settings, head to System Settings, and toggle on Storage Sense in the storage area. You can customize this to your preferences, and you won’t have to worry about running out of space during critical moments.
Bolstering security through Dynamic Lock
Invariably, there will be times when we have been in a rush and we have forgotten to lock your PC. But Dynamic Lock is like your personal security guard, and you can pair or sync with devices other than your PC via Bluetooth.
This can be done through the Accounts settings, and in the sign-up options, look for the Dynamic Lock, but it is worth stressing this is a simple but handy way to keep your PC secure.
Simplifying troubleshooting through Steps Recorder
Steps Recorder is one of those hidden treasures that few would have heard of, let alone encountered. It’s fair to assert that the days are long gone when you had to remember every click or shortcut.
With Steps Recorder, you can record your actions, and it generates a detailed report with screenshots and descriptions. Once you have entered Steps Recorder in the Windows search bar, click “Start Record”, and it will capture your screen activity. This is a godsend, although there have been suggestions it will be phased out at the end of 2024.
Adjusting scale and text settings
This may seem like common knowledge, as you can adjust font and text sizes, but you can now tinker with the scale size. Instead of changing the resolution, which you will be advised against doing, go to Display Settings, scroll down a bit, and change the Scale setting.
Many programs will come with their own scaling and text settings, but you can tweak the scale and text settings to your liking for a more comfortable combination.
Snipping more effectively
If you want to take better screenshots, then you may need to use the renovated Snipping tool. In Windows 10, there is a Snip & Sketch app, and the shortcut for this is to use Shift + Win + S so you can choose between rectangular, freeform, window, or even a full-screen snip. This is an incredibly versatile tool and you will be glad when you start using it.
Boost your Windows experience
So, there you have it. We have run through 10 hidden Windows features that you may not have known about previously, but they are all game-changers in their own right, and they are designed to make your work life more organized and productive.
Windows is very agile and great at customizing things to your needs. If this guide has given food for thought, then apply our tips and you will notice the results.
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