The 5 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Productivity on Your Windows 11 Computer

Windows 11 is designed to enhance user experience with its sleek interface, improved multitasking features, and better performance. However, to maximize productivity, users can optimize their setup with a few key strategies. Whether you’re working from home, studying, or simply looking to streamline your daily computer usage, here are five top things you can do to improve your productivity on your Windows 11 computer.

1. Utilize Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops

Windows 11 introduces Snap Layouts, a powerful multitasking feature that allows you to organize multiple windows efficiently. With this tool, you can quickly arrange your open applications into predefined layouts, making it easier to manage tasks without switching between windows excessively.

How to Use Snap Layouts:

• Hover over the maximize button on any window.
• Select one of the available layouts (e.g., side-by-side, three-column, grid, etc.).
• Click on another app to snap it into place automatically.

In addition, Virtual Desktops allow you to create separate workspaces for different projects, reducing clutter and keeping distractions at bay.

How to Use Virtual Desktops:

• Press Win + Tab to open Task View.
• Click on + New Desktop at the top.
• Switch between desktops using Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow.

Using Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops effectively can help you stay organized and focused on multiple projects at once.

2. Enable Focus Assist to Minimize Distractions

Windows 11 comes with Focus Assist, a built-in feature that helps you stay focused by blocking unnecessary notifications. Whether you’re in a meeting, working on a deadline, or studying, enabling Focus Assist ensures that distractions are kept to a minimum.

How to Enable Focus Assist:

• Open Settings (Win + I).
• Navigate to System > Focus Assist.
• Choose from:
  • Off (All notifications are shown).
  • Priority Only (Allows only important notifications).
  • Alarms Only (Blocks everything except alarms).
• You can also set automatic rules based on your schedule or specific activities (e.g., when playing games or presenting).

This feature is incredibly useful for maintaining deep focus and avoiding constant interruptions from notifications.

3. Optimize Your Startup Programs and Background Apps

One of the biggest performance slowdowns in Windows 11 comes from unnecessary startup programs and background apps consuming resources. By disabling these, you can speed up your system and improve overall efficiency.

How to Disable Startup Programs:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Click on the Startup tab.
• Identify unnecessary programs and click Disable to prevent them from launching at startup.

How to Manage Background Apps:

• Open Settings (Win + I).
• Go to Apps > Installed apps.
• Select an app and click Advanced options.
• Under Background apps permissions, choose Never to stop it from running in the background.

By managing startup programs and background apps, you’ll free up valuable system resources, leading to a faster and more responsive computer.

4. Use Windows PowerToys for Advanced Productivity Features

Windows PowerToys is a powerful set of utilities that enhances productivity by offering features like FancyZones, PowerRename, and Keyboard Manager.

Useful PowerToys Features:

• FancyZones: Allows you to create custom window layouts for better multitasking.
• PowerRename: Enables batch renaming of files to save time.
• Keyboard Manager: Lets you remap keys and create shortcuts for efficiency.
• Run: A quick search launcher (press Alt + Space) for opening apps and files instantly.

How to Install PowerToys:

• Download it from Microsoft’s GitHub page or via Microsoft Store.
• Launch PowerToys and configure features according to your needs.

With PowerToys, you can tailor Windows 11 to your workflow and significantly enhance efficiency.

5. Automate Tasks with Windows 11 Shortcuts and Tools

Windows 11 supports various automation features and keyboard shortcuts that help you complete tasks faster.

Essential Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Win + D: Show desktop
• Win + E: Open File Explorer
• Win + V: Open Clipboard history (enable it first in Settings)
• Win + Shift + S: Take a screenshot using Snipping Tool
• Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager instantly
• Win + L: Lock your computer

Automate with Task Scheduler:

You can use Windows Task Scheduler to automate repetitive tasks, such as launching apps, running scripts, or backing up files.

How to Set Up Task Scheduler:

• Search for Task Scheduler in the Start menu.
• Click Create Basic Task and follow the wizard to define triggers and actions.
• Schedule tasks like opening applications at startup or running maintenance scripts.

Using shortcuts and automation tools will save you time and streamline daily workflows. Windows 11 provides a range of features designed to boost productivity, but optimizing your system can take your efficiency to the next level. By utilizing Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops, enabling Focus Assist, managing startup programs, leveraging PowerToys, and automating tasks, you can work smarter and accomplish more in less time. Try implementing these tips today and experience a noticeable improvement in your Windows 11 productivity!