Have You Switched to Smart Windows 11? Here’s How to Get the Most Out of It!
Smart Windows 11 is quickly becoming the go-to operating system, with over 31% of the Windows market share as of August 2024. And with Windows 10 retiring in 2025, more people are making the upgrade every day. 
Are you already using Smart Windows 11, or thinking about switching soon? If so, you’re in for some powerful features that can take your productivity to the next level. But here’s the thing—you’ve got to know how to use them to see the real benefits.
Let’s explore some of the smartest settings and tools in Windows 11 that can completely transform your daily workflow!
1. Smart Windows 11 Menu Customization
The Start Menu in Smart Windows 11 is more than just a place to launch apps—it’s your gateway to boosting productivity. By customizing it, you can streamline your daily tasks and save valuable time. Here’s how you can make your Start Menu work smarter for you:
- Pin Your Favorites for Quick Access:
Do you have apps you use multiple times a day? Right-click on these apps and select “Pin to Start.” This action keeps them prominently displayed on your Start Menu, so you’re never more than one click away from what you need. No more scrolling through long lists of apps!
- Organize with Folders:
If your Start Menu feels cluttered, Smart Windows 11 has a solution—folders. Simply drag and drop one app onto another to create a folder. For example, you could group all your work apps or creative tools into separate folders. Once created, label them for easy navigation. This keeps everything organized and reduces the time spent hunting for apps.
- Tailor the Layout to Your Workflow:
Your Start Menu should reflect how you work. Head to Settings > Personalization > Start to customize its layout. You can control which folders appear (like Documents or Downloads) and even adjust the size of app icons. This allows you to create a layout that aligns perfectly with your daily routine.
By taking advantage of these Smart Windows 11 customization options, you’ll turn your Start Menu into a productivity powerhouse!
2. Virtual Desktops in Smart Windows 11
Smart Windows 11 makes it easy to stay organized and focused with virtual desktops. This feature lets you create separate workspaces for different tasks, such as one desktop for work projects and another for personal use. It’s like having multiple monitors without the extra hardware!
Here’s how to use virtual desktops in Smart Windows 11 to streamline your workflow:
- Create a New Desktop for Better Focus:
Open the Task View by clicking its icon on the taskbar or pressing Win + Tab. From there, click “New Desktop” to set up a fresh virtual workspace. This is perfect for keeping unrelated tasks separate and reducing distractions.
- Effortlessly Switch Between Desktops:
Navigate between your virtual desktops quickly by pressing Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow. This shortcut lets you move seamlessly between work and personal desktops without interrupting your flow.
With virtual desktops in Smart Windows 11, you can stay organized, focused, and in control of your tasks throughout the day.
3. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups
Multitasking becomes a breeze with Snap Layouts and Snap Groups in Smart Windows 11. These features allow you to arrange your windows neatly, making side-by-side work simple and efficient. Say goodbye to the hassle of constantly switching between apps!
Here’s how to use these tools to maximize productivity in Smart Windows 11:
- Snap Layouts for Instant Organization:
Hover over the maximize button on any open window to reveal available snap layouts. Select the layout that works best for your task, and the window will snap into place. It’s a quick way to set up your workspace and focus on what matters.
- Create and Use Snap Groups for Seamless Multitasking:
Arrange multiple windows into a snap layout, and Smart Windows 11 will automatically remember the group. When you hover over an app’s icon on the taskbar, you can view and restore the entire snap group with a single click. This makes it easy to pick up where you left off without rearranging windows.
With Snap Layouts and Snap Groups in Smart Windows 11, you can stay organized, work smarter, and get more done in less time!
4. Focus Assist
Smart Windows 11 offers Focus Assist, a handy feature designed to minimize distractions and help you stay productive. Whether you’re working on an important project or simply need uninterrupted time, Focus Assist keeps you in the zone.
Here’s how to make the most of Focus Assist in Smart Windows 11:
- Enable Focus Assist for Instant Focus:
Open the taskbar search and type “Focus.” Click on Focus Settings to explore your options. From there, start a focus session to block unnecessary notifications and stay on track.
- Set Automatic Rules for Hands-Free Productivity:
Customize Focus Assist to turn on automatically during specific situations. For example, you can enable it while duplicating your display for presentations or when gaming. These rules ensure that you stay focused without needing to adjust settings manually.
With Focus Assist in Smart Windows 11, you can take control of your work environment and get more done without interruptions.
5. Widgets in Smart Windows 11
Smart Windows 11 brings you Widgets—the personalized dashboard that gives you quick access to things like news, weather, calendar, and more. These handy tools keep everything you need at your fingertips, saving you time and effort.
Here’s how to make the most of Widgets in Smart Windows 11:
- Access Widgets for Instant Info:
Simply click the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press Win + W to open your personalized feed. Get a quick snapshot of everything you care about without opening multiple apps.
- Customize Widgets to Fit Your Needs:
Personalize your Widget experience by adding or removing widgets as needed. You can also adjust their size and position to make sure they work for you. Tailor your dashboard to display only the most relevant information for your day.
With Widgets in Smart Windows 11, you can stay updated and organized without leaving your desktop!
6. Taskbar Customization in Smart Windows 11
A clean and organized taskbar in Smart Windows 11 can make a big difference in your productivity. If you’re tired of seeing icons for apps you never use, it’s time to tidy up! By removing unnecessary distractions, you can focus more and find what you need in less time.
Here’s how to optimize your taskbar in Smart Windows 11:
- Pin Your Favorite Apps for Easy Access:
Right-click on any app you use regularly and select “Pin to taskbar” to keep it handy at all times. No more hunting for apps—you can launch them with just one click.
- Customize Taskbar Settings for Your Workflow:
Right-click on the taskbar and choose Taskbar settings to adjust how it works for you. You can hide the taskbar in desktop mode, display badges on app icons, and make other adjustments to fit your needs.
With these taskbar customizations in Smart Windows 11, you’ll create a workspace that’s not only clean but also tailored to your productivity style.
7. Keyboard Shortcuts
Did you know that mastering a few simple keyboard shortcuts can save you tons of time? Which shortcuts do you already use—and are you ready to learn some new ones? In Smart Windows 11, these handy tricks can make navigating your computer faster and easier, almost like second nature.
Here are some essential shortcuts to boost your productivity:
- Win + E: Instantly open File Explorer to access your files.
- Win + I: Jump straight into Settings to make adjustments quickly.
- Win + D: Show or hide your desktop in a flash.
- Win + L: Lock your PC when you step away to keep it secure.
- Alt + Tab: Effortlessly switch between open apps without using your mouse.
Try these Smart Windows 11 shortcuts and see how much smoother your daily tasks become! Which one will you use first?
8. Power and Battery Settings
Worried about your device running out of juice? Smart Windows 11 has you covered with customizable power and battery settings. These tools can help you extend battery life and optimize performance, especially when you’re away from a power source.
Here’s how you can make the most of them:
- Choose the Right Power Mode:
Head to Settings > System > Power & battery to select a power mode that works for you. Whether you need high performance or want to save battery, you can find the perfect balance to suit your needs.
- Turn On Battery Saver When You’re Running Low:
Enable Battery Saver to stretch your battery life when it’s running low. This feature is a lifesaver when you’re on the go and don’t have access to a charger.
Smart Windows 11 makes managing power and battery simple, so you can focus on what matters without worrying about your device dying! How will you use these tips to keep your workflow running smoothly?
9. Storage Sense
Running out of disk space can be frustrating, but Smart Windows 11 has a built-in solution: Storage Sense. This handy tool helps you automatically clean up unnecessary files, so you don’t have to worry about your storage filling up.
Here’s how you can make Storage Sense work for you:
- Turn On Storage Sense for Automatic Cleanups:
Go to Settings > System > Storage and switch on Storage Sense. Once enabled, it’ll automatically get rid of things like temporary files and other junk to free up space.
- Set Up Cleanup Schedules:
Customize how and when Storage Sense does its magic. You can schedule it to empty the recycle bin, delete temporary files, or remove unused items regularly—keeping your system clutter-free without any extra effort.
With Storage Sense in Smart Windows 11, you can keep your device running smoothly without lifting a finger. When will you try it out?
10. Accessibility Features
Smart Windows 11 is designed to work for everyone, and its accessibility features are here to make your experience easier and more productive. Whether you need better visibility, audio support, or a little extra help navigating your screen, these tools have got you covered!
Check out some of the key accessibility features:
- Magnifier for Zooming In:
Need a closer look? Use the Magnifier tool to zoom in on parts of your screen. Just press Win + Plus to activate it and focus on the details.
- Narrator to Read Aloud:
Want your screen to talk to you? Enable Narrator to have text read aloud. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Narrator to turn it on and adjust the settings to suit your needs.
- High Contrast Mode for Better Visibility:
Struggling with screen clarity? Enable High Contrast Mode to improve visibility and make text and icons pop. Find it under Settings > Accessibility > High Contrast and choose the color scheme that works best for you.
These accessibility features in Smart Windows 11 are here to make your workflow easier and more comfortable. Which one will you try first?
Looking for More Productivity Tips with Smart Windows 11?
Smart Windows 11 is packed with tools to streamline your workday, but there’s even more to discover! Our team of IT experts has a treasure trove of productivity tips to help your office or business thrive.
Ready to optimize your workflow and get the most out of Smart Windows 11? Let’s talk! Reach out today to schedule a quick chat—we’re here to help your team work smarter, not harder.
Contact us at (978) 466-1938 or visit our website today.