PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Windows 11 includes built-in tools for arranging apps, separating workspaces, quieting notifications, backing up selected settings and files, and using voice controls. These 20 practical tips are an editorial selection—not an official Microsoft ranking—and focus on workflows you can configure in Windows itself.
Arrange apps and move between tasks
1. Open Snap layouts with a shortcut
Press Windows+Z to show the Snap layouts available for your display. Choose a layout, then select open apps for the remaining spaces with Snap Assist. The layouts offered can vary with screen size.
2. Find layouts from the maximize button
Hover over an app window’s maximize button to display Snap layouts, then choose a position. This is a useful alternative when you do not remember the shortcut.
3. Snap a window with the keyboard
Press Windows+Left or Windows+Right to snap the active window to a side. Repeated presses or the up and down arrow keys can move it among available positions, depending on the display and current arrangement.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
4. Drag a window to an edge
Drag an app window to the edge or corner of the screen to place it in a snapped position. This is handy when you are already using the mouse and want to arrange a window without opening the layout menu.
5. Resize snapped windows together
When adjacent apps are snapped, drag the divider between them to adjust their relative sizes. This lets you give more room to the app that needs it while keeping the other visible.
6. Restore a Snap group
After arranging apps together, use the Snap group entry available from the taskbar, Task View, or Alt+Tab to return to that collection. It can save repeated setup when you regularly use the same apps together.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
7. Tune Snap behavior
Open Settings > System > Multitasking to control Snap behavior. The available options can help tailor how Windows offers layouts and handles snapped windows.
8. Use Alt+Tab for quick app switching
Press Alt+Tab to cycle through open applications. Use it when you know which app you want to reach; it is a faster, more focused switcher than opening a full overview.
9. Use Task View to see the bigger picture
Open Task View to review open windows and manage virtual desktops. It is useful when you want an overview rather than simply cycling to the next app.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
10. Separate work contexts with virtual desktops
Create separate desktops for distinct activities—for example, one for work and another for personal tasks—if that division suits your routine. Switch between desktops through Task View, keeping each context’s open windows easier to manage.
Reduce interruptions with Focus
11. Start a Focus session where convenient
Start a Focus session from the clock or notification area, from Settings > System > Focus, or in the Clock app. Choose whichever entry point fits the way you work.
12. Set a session duration and timer display
Choose a duration that fits the task and configure whether a timer is shown. A visible timer can help you keep track of a work interval; turn it off if it adds clutter.
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
13. Silence notifications during a session
Configure Focus to use Do not disturb if you want to quiet notifications. Focus controls notification behavior, but it should not be treated as a guarantee that every possible distraction will stop.
14. Hide taskbar badges and flashing
Focus settings can hide taskbar badges and flashing indicators while you work. Adjust these options if visual attention cues are distracting, or leave them enabled if you rely on them.
15. Check Do not disturb after the session
If Do not disturb was already on before a Focus session, Microsoft says it remains on after that session ends. Check its state afterward if you expect notifications to resume.
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Back up selected files and settings
16. Choose which user folders Windows Backup covers
Windows Backup can back up selected Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music folders to OneDrive. Review which folders are enabled rather than assuming every file on the PC is included.
17. Review the settings and preferences being backed up
Windows Backup offers selected settings and preferences, including personalization, installed apps, accessibility, accounts, Wi-Fi information, and some device settings. What is available can depend on account and organization configuration.
18. Confirm account and storage conditions
Personalization backup requires signing in to OneDrive and having available storage. Check your account, remaining storage, and the enabled backup choices before relying on the feature.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →19. Treat cloud backup as one part of a backup plan
Windows Backup’s folder and settings options do not establish that every file, application, or app’s data is backed up or restored. Do not treat syncing selected folders and preferences as a complete offline backup.
Try voice and accessibility controls
20. Explore Voice Access and other input options
Voice Access lets you interact with visible controls by name or by using a number overlay. Microsoft documents it for Windows 11 version 22H2 and later. Check current Windows settings for language and device availability before relying on it. Microsoft’s accessibility guide also points to touch gestures, the on-screen keyboard, captions, screen readers, and input-device settings.
Quick Recap
Choose the right tool for the task
- Arrange several apps on one display: use Snap layouts or keyboard snapping.
- Return to a familiar app arrangement: use a Snap group.
- Switch quickly to a known open app: use Alt+Tab.
- Review open windows or manage desktops: use Task View.
- Separate different work contexts: use virtual desktops when that division helps your workflow.
- Reduce interruptions: configure Focus for the notification and taskbar behavior you want, including whether a timer remains visible.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
