The Best Windows 11 Tips and Tricks You Didn't Know You Needed

Windows 11 is more than just a visual upgrade from Windows 10. Beneath the sleek interface lies a treasure trove of hidden features and productivity tools that can change the way you use your PC. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, these Windows 11 tips and tricks will help you get more out of your system.

Here’s your insider guide to the best features you didn’t even know you needed.

1. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups – Multitasking Made Easy

What it does: Easily organize your open windows into neat layouts.

How to use:

• Hover over the maximize icon of any window.

• Choose a layout (split screen, quadrant, etc.).

• Drag other apps into the layout spots.

Pro Tip: Windows 11 remembers your Snap Groups even after rebooting—great for those who juggle multiple projects!

2. Virtual Desktops – Separate Work and Play

What it does: Create multiple desktops for different purposes (e.g., work, gaming, studying).

How to use:

• Press Windows + Tab to open Task View.

• Click New desktop.

• Switch between desktops with Ctrl + Windows + Left/Right Arrow.

Use one for work apps and another for personal use to keep your digital life organized.

3. Focus Sessions – Built-in Productivity Coach

What it does: Helps you stay on task with a timer and Spotify integration.

How to use:

• Open Clock from the Start menu.

• Click Focus Sessions.

• Set a timer, choose music, and begin your session.

It’s like having a mini Pomodoro timer baked right into Windows.

4. DirectStorage – Lightning-Fast Game Load Times

What it does: Speeds up game and app loading using your NVMe SSD.

How to enable:

• Ensure your SSD supports DirectStorage.

• Update GPU drivers.

• Use games that support the feature (e.g., Forspoken, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart).

Gamers, rejoice—loading screens are about to become a thing of the past.

5. Widgets Panel – At-a-Glance Information

What it does: Get weather, calendar, and news updates in one place.

How to use:

• Click the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press Windows + W.

• Customize your feed by clicking your profile picture and selecting Manage Interests.

Tip: You can pin calendar events, sports scores, and traffic updates for fast access.

6. Hidden Start Menu Shortcuts

What it does: Gives you access to advanced tools with a right-click.

How to use:

• Right-click the Start button or press Windows + X.

You'll get quick links to Device Manager, Disk Management, Terminal, and more—no need to dig through Control Panel.

7. Touchpad Gestures for Quick Navigation

If you’re on a laptop, you can swipe your way through tasks:

• Three-finger swipe up: Open Task View

• Three-finger swipe down: Minimize all windows

• Four-finger swipe left/right: Switch desktops

Enable or customize gestures via Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad.

8. Dynamic Refresh Rate – Balance Performance and Battery

What it does: Adjusts refresh rate automatically based on activity.

How to enable:

• Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display.

• If supported, select Dynamic under the Refresh Rate drop-down.

Perfect for high-refresh displays and those using hybrid laptops.

9. Clipchamp – Built-in Video Editor

Microsoft now includes Clipchamp, a simple yet powerful video editor, right in Windows 11.

What you can do:

• Trim and cut videos

• Add text, transitions, and effects

• Export in HD quality

You no longer need third-party tools for basic content creation.

10. Windows Terminal – One Shell to Rule Them All

What it does: Combines Command Prompt, PowerShell, and WSL in one interface.

How to access:

• Right-click Start > Windows Terminal.

Customize tabs, themes, and profiles for a cleaner, more powerful command-line experience.

11. Clipboard History – Copy Smarter

What it does: Saves your last 25 copied items.

How to enable:

• Press Windows + V.

• Click Turn on.

Great for writers, coders, and anyone copying more than one thing at a time.

12. God Mode – All Settings in One Place

What it does: Gives you a control panel with every setting imaginable.

How to enable:

• Right-click on your desktop and create a new folder.

• Rename it to:
  {ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}

Open it to reveal an advanced settings panel that’ll make you feel like a system wizard.

Final Thoughts

Windows 11 isn't just about rounded corners and new icons—it's a powerful, modern OS full of productivity, gaming, and customization features. These Windows 11 tips and tricks will help you streamline your workflow, enhance your PC's performance, and enjoy a smoother user experience.

Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been using it for months, there’s always something new to uncover.