Boost Your Productivity with Smart Windows 11 Settings

January 6, 2025

Windows 10 retires in October of this year. Good news for you, All in Technology is here to help your business convert your soon to be outdate machines and programs. As a certified Microsoft Solutions Partner, All in Technology doesn’t just implement systems – we transform them. Our expert team turns complex Microsoft solutions into powerful tools that drive your business forward.

If you have already upgraded or have it at the top of your 2025 “To-do” list, then, you will appreciate time saving and productivity increasing tips to get the most out of your Windows 11 experience.

Below is our recommendation from Microsoft Solutions experts, outlining best practices to transform your daily workflow.

1. Smart Menu Customization

The Start Menu might not seem to be the most important, but it’s your gateway to all the applications and settings on your computer. By customizing it, you can greatly influence your potential productivity by saving you time and clicks.

Here are a few ideas:

Pin Frequently Used Apps: Right-click on any app and select “Pin to Start.” This keeps your most-used applications just a click away.
Organize into Folders: Drag and drop apps on top of each other to create folders. Label these for easy identification.
Adjust Start Menu Layout: Go to Settings > Personalization > Start. Here, you can choose which folders appear on Start and adjust the layout to suit your needs.

2. Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops allow you to organize your workspace by separating different tasks into distinct desktops. For example, one for work and one for personal.

Create a New Desktop: Click on the Task View button on the taskbar or press Win + Tab. Click on “New Desktop” to create a new virtual space.
Switch Between Desktops: Use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow to switch between desktops.

3. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups

Snap Layouts and Snap Groups are powerful tools for multitasking. They snap windows into position for side-by-side work, saving you time by reducing how often you need to switch apps.

Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on any window to see available snap layouts. Choose a layout to snap the window into place.
Create Snap Groups: Snap windows into a layout. Windows 11 remembers the group. Hover over the taskbar icons to see and restore the snap group.

4. Focus Assist

Focus Assist helps you stay focused by minimizing distractions. So you can stop being interrupted by a small task or question from the team while you focused on a project.

Enable Focus Assist: Search “Focus” from the taskbar search and click Focus Settings. Choose your options and click to start a session.
Set Automatic Rules: Configure automatic rules to enable Focus Assist during specific times. For example, when duplicating your display or when playing a game.

5. Widgets

Widgets provide quick access to personalized content like news, weather, calendar, and more.

Access Widgets: Click on the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press Win + W.
Customize Widgets: Add or remove widgets. Adjust their size and position to suit your preferences.

6. Taskbar Customization

Tired of looking at icons you never use? Hide them. This reduces distractions and helps you find what you need faster. A well-organized taskbar can significantly enhance your productivity.

Pin Apps to Taskbar: Right-click on any app and select “Pin to taskbar” for quick access.
Adjust Taskbar Settings: Right-click on the taskbar and choose “Taskbar settings.” Here, you can customize taskbar behaviors. Such as hiding it in desktop mode or showing badges on taskbar buttons.

7. Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Once you learn your favorites, using them will be like second nature. Here are some essential ones:

Win + E: Open File Explorer.
Win + I: Open Settings.
Win + D: Show or hide the desktop.
Win + L: Lock your PC.
Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps.

8. Power and Battery Settings

Optimizing power and battery settings can extend your device’s battery life. It can also improve performance. Knowing these adjustments is extremely helpful if you’re without a power connection for a while. Like when your batter is running low at an airport but you need to send one quick email before you board.

Adjust Power Mode: Go to Settings > System > Power & battery. Choose a power mode that balances performance and battery life.
Battery Saver: Enable Battery Saver to extend battery life. Use it when your device is running low or you’re away from power for an extended time.

9. Storage Sense

Storage Sense helps you manage disk space by automatically deleting unnecessary files.

Enable Storage Sense: Go to Settings > System > Storage. Turn on Storage Sense and configure it to run automatically.
Configure Cleanup Schedules: Set up schedules for several tasks. Such as deleting temporary files, emptying the recycle bin, and removing unused files.

10. Accessibility Features

Windows 11 includes several accessibility features that can enhance your productivity.

Magnifier: Use the Magnifier tool to zoom in on parts of your screen. Press Win + Plus to activate it.
Narrator: Enable Narrator to read text on your screen aloud. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Narrator.
High Contrast Mode: Improve visibility by enabling high contrast mode. Go to Settings > Accessibility > High contrast.

Looking for More IT Insight?

The All in Technology team brings unparalleled expertise to help you elevate productivity and streamline your workflow. Our IT professionals are ready to share insights tailored to your needs—reach out to us and discover the difference.

Additionally, with Windows 10 support ending this October, now is the perfect time to plan your transition. When you’re ready to upgrade your systems, trust All in Technology to ensure a seamless and efficient migration. Let us be your partner in staying ahead of the curve.