Whether you use your Windows PC for work, school, browsing or entertainment, there are plenty of features that can make everyday tasks faster and easier.
Here are 10 useful Windows tricks worth adding to your routine.
1. Switch Between Apps Quickly
Instead of reaching for your mouse every time, press Alt + Tab to quickly switch between open applications.
Keep holding Alt and tap Tab to move through your open windows, then release to select one.
2. Open Clipboard History
Windows can remember multiple things you’ve copied.
Press Windows + V to open Clipboard History. If you’re using it for the first time, Windows will ask you to turn the feature on. You can then access previously copied items instead of losing the previous copy every time you copy something new.
3. Arrange Windows With Snap
Working with multiple windows? Windows’ Snap feature lets you arrange them side-by-side or into different layouts.
You can drag a window to an edge of the screen, use Windows + Arrow keys, or press Windows + Z to open Snap layouts in Windows 11.
This is particularly useful when comparing documents, researching while writing, or working with several applications.
4. Take a Quick Screenshot
Need to capture part of your screen?
Press Windows + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool and select the area you want to capture. The screenshot is copied to your clipboard so you can quickly paste or edit it.
5. Open File Explorer Instantly
Instead of searching through the Start menu for your files, simply press:
Windows + E
This immediately opens File Explorer.
It’s a small shortcut, but one you’ll quickly appreciate if you regularly work with documents and folders.
6. Show Your Desktop Instantly
Have too many windows open and need to see your desktop?
Press Windows + D.
Your open windows will be hidden, giving you immediate access to the desktop. Press it again to bring your windows back.
7. Create Multiple Desktops
You don’t have to keep everything on one desktop.
Windows lets you create multiple virtual desktops, which can be useful for separating different types of work. For example, you could have one desktop for work and another for personal browsing.
Check the previous guide to learn about 10 Google Search Tricks You Should Know
Press Windows + Tab to open Task View and manage your desktops.
8. Open Settings Quickly
Need to change a Windows setting?
Instead of navigating through the Start menu, press:
Windows + I
This opens the Settings app immediately.
9. Open the Run Command
The Run dialog gives you a quick way to launch applications, folders and system tools.
Press:
Windows + R
You can then type a command or program name and press Enter.
For example, typing notepad and pressing Enter opens Notepad.
10. Use Windows’ Built-In Emoji and Symbol Panel
Need an emoji, symbol or GIF while typing?
Press:
Windows + . (period)
Windows opens its emoji panel, which also provides access to GIFs, kaomoji and symbols.
It’s useful when you’re writing messages, social media posts or documents and don’t want to search the internet for a symbol.
You don’t need complicated software to become more efficient on your Windows PC. A handful of shortcuts and built-in features can save you time every day.
Start with Alt + Tab, Windows + V, Windows + Shift + S and Windows + Z. Once they become part of your routine, you’ll probably find yourself reaching for the mouse much less often.
And if you’re still using Windows 10, keep in mind that Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. For continued security updates, Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11.