Want to work smarter, not harder on your Windows PC? Whether you’re working from home or juggling multiple tasks at once, these built-in Windows features can dramatically improve your efficiency. Here are 7 time-saving tricks you can start using today to stay ahead of the curve!
- 1 Windows Tips You Should Start Using
- 1.1 1. Use Virtual Desktops to Keep Work and Personal Tasks Separate
- 1.2 2. Use Snap Layouts to Instantly Organize Windows
- 1.3 3. Turn on Focus Assist to Eliminate Distractions
- 1.4 4. Use Clipboard History for Fast Copy & Paste
- 1.5 5. Use Tabs in File Explorer Like a Browser
- 1.6 6. Master These Shortcuts to Save Time
- 1.7 7. Use Sticky Notes or OneNote to Capture Ideas Fast
- 2 Summary: 7 Time-Saving Tricks in Windows
Windows Tips You Should Start Using
1. Use Virtual Desktops to Keep Work and Personal Tasks Separate
If you often find your desktop cluttered with windows, try Virtual Desktops. This feature lets you create multiple desktops for different tasks, so you can stay focused and organized.
- Desktop 1: Work – Email, Excel, Teams
- Desktop 2: Research – Browser, Notes
- Desktop 3: Personal – YouTube, Shopping
Shortcuts:
- Windows + Ctrl + D → Create new virtual desktop
- Windows + Ctrl + ← / → → Switch desktops
- Windows + Tab → View all desktops
Want to learn more? Check out this full list of shortcut keys:
👉100+ Essential Windows Shortcut Keys
Tip: You can delete a virtual desktop with Windows + Ctrl + F4. Open files will move to another desktop automatically.
2. Use Snap Layouts to Instantly Organize Windows
Snap Layouts, available on Windows 11, lets you easily split your screen. Just drag a window to the edge, and choose your layout. It’s perfect for multitasking.
- Drag a window to the side or top
- Select a layout from the popup
Note: Snap Layouts are only available in Windows 11.
3. Turn on Focus Assist to Eliminate Distractions
Tired of constant pop-up notifications? Turn on Focus Assist to mute them while you’re working or in a meeting.
- Click the clock or network icon in the taskbar to open Quick Settings
- Click “Focus” or “Do Not Disturb”
- Customize which apps are allowed to interrupt
This setting helps you stay in the zone without being pulled away by every ping.
4. Use Clipboard History for Fast Copy & Paste
Copying multiple things? No need to paste one at a time. Enable clipboard history and access everything you’ve copied.
- Press Windows + V to open clipboard history
- Click any item to paste it again
Great for writers, students, or anyone doing repetitive tasks.
5. Use Tabs in File Explorer Like a Browser
Windows 11 now lets you use tabs in File Explorer. You can switch between folders without opening multiple windows—just like a web browser.
- Open File Explorer
- Use the “+” button to open a new tab
- Drag to reorder or right-click to close
Tip: Keep related folders grouped together for faster access.
6. Master These Shortcuts to Save Time
Keyboard shortcuts can cut down your task time dramatically. Here are a few essentials:
- Alt + Tab: Switch between open windows
- Windows + E: Open File Explorer
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager
- Windows + L: Lock your screen instantly
Just by using a few of these, your workflow will become much smoother.
7. Use Sticky Notes or OneNote to Capture Ideas Fast
Have an idea but no time to act? Jot it down with Sticky Notes or OneNote, both included in Windows.
- Search “Sticky Notes” in the Start Menu
- Open OneNote for long-term note-taking and syncing
Good ideas often come at the wrong time. Don’t lose them—save them instantly.
Summary: 7 Time-Saving Tricks in Windows
| No. | Tip | Description | Shortcut / How |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virtual Desktops | Separate workspaces for different tasks | Win + Ctrl + D |
| 2 | Snap Layouts | Auto arrange windows | Drag to screen edge |
| 3 | Focus Assist | Mute notifications | Quick Settings → Focus |
| 4 | Clipboard History | Reuse copied items | Win + V |
| 5 | Explorer Tabs | Tabbed folders like browsers | Windows 11 only |
| 6 | Shortcuts | Faster navigation | Alt + Tab, etc. |
| 7 | Sticky Notes / OneNote | Capture ideas quickly | Start menu → Search |
Whether you’re managing multiple projects, studying for exams, or just trying to stay focused, these built-in Windows features can make your daily tasks much smoother.
Start with one or two tips from the list above, and gradually add more to your workflow. You’ll be amazed at how much time and energy you can save!
Remember: Small habits, like using virtual desktops or keyboard shortcuts, can lead to big productivity gains over time.
✔️You might also find these helpful:
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▶︎C Drive Space Disappearing on Windows 11? 10 Real Causes and Fixes (2025 Update)
▶︎Is Your PC Sluggish? Here’s How to Clean and Speed Up Your Windows Computer
💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.
