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To work with Windows 11, start with four places: Start to open apps and reach common destinations, the taskbar to switch between apps and access system controls, File Explorer to manage folders and files, and Settings to customize your PC. You can use the mouse or touch throughout; keyboard shortcuts are optional.
Get oriented on the Windows 11 desktop
After you sign in, the desktop is your main workspace. Microsoft’s beginner guide, Meet Windows 11: The Basics, describes it as “The desktop is your main workspace in Windows 11.”
- Start: Select the Start button on the taskbar, or press the Windows key, to find apps and access common destinations.
- Taskbar: Use it to open pinned apps, switch to apps that are already running, and reach system controls.
- Quick Settings: Select the network, volume, or battery area of the taskbar to reach frequent controls such as Wi-Fi and volume. The exact controls depend on your device.
- File Explorer: Browse and organize files and folders here. Open it from the taskbar or press Windows key + E.
Open an app or find something with Search
To launch an app, open Start and select it from the list, or type its name in taskbar Search. Search is also useful for locating settings and documents. Microsoft says taskbar search can return files across your PC and OneDrive, though results can depend on indexing and your account or cloud settings. See Find your files and apps in Windows.
Use taskbar Search when you are not sure where an app or file is stored. Use File Explorer Search when you want to look in a particular folder or broaden a file search to This PC.
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Browse and organize files in File Explorer
Open File Explorer with Windows key + E. Select a folder from the left pane or open one in the main window. To create a folder, use the New option in the toolbar and choose Folder. To rename an item, select it and choose Rename from the toolbar or its context menu. You can also drag items between folders to move them.
Choose the right search scope
- Search inside a folder to narrow results to that location.
- Search This PC for a broader search across the computer. A wider search may take longer.
If a file does not appear, check that you are searching the intended location. Search indexing and cloud or account settings can affect which results appear.
Change settings and common controls
Open Settings from Start, or press Windows key + I. Browse categories or enter a setting name in Settings search—for example, “display” or “notifications.” Common categories include System, Network & internet, Personalization, Apps, Accounts, Accessibility, and Privacy & security. Available categories and controls can vary by Windows release and device. Microsoft’s Exploring Windows Settings guide covers Windows 11.
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Use a few shortcuts when they help
You do not need to memorize shortcuts to use Windows. If you prefer the keyboard, these can save a few steps:
- Windows key opens Start.
- Windows key + E opens File Explorer.
- Windows key + I opens Settings.
- Ctrl + C copies, Ctrl + V pastes, and Ctrl + Z undoes in many apps. Their behavior can vary by app.
Microsoft’s full list is in Keyboard shortcuts in Windows.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Get help when you are stuck
- Search the taskbar for an app, file, setting, or help topic.
- For a question about a setting, open Settings and select its Get help link if available.
- For broader troubleshooting, visit How to get help in Windows or browse Microsoft’s Windows help and learning pages.
Know which Windows version you are using
These steps focus on Windows 11; menus and Settings paths may differ in Windows 10. Microsoft states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. After that date, standard support no longer includes free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes. For current guidance, use Microsoft’s Windows 11 documentation and check your PC’s compatibility before changing versions.
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