5 Hidden Windows Features That Will Save You Time and Energy

Introduction

Windows is a widely used operating system with numerous features that are commonly known and used by its users. However, there are also some hidden features that are not widely advertised but can greatly improve productivity and save time for users. In this article, we will highlight five such features that are worth knowing.

Windows Key Shortcuts

Windows key shortcuts are one of the easiest ways to navigate and multitask on your PC. Here are two of the most useful ones:

Snap windows side by side

This feature allows you to quickly snap two windows side by side, making it easier to multitask. To do this, simply click on the first window you want to snap and hold down the Windows key + the left or right arrow key. The window will snap to the left or right side of the screen. Next, select the second window you want to snap and repeat the process with the opposite arrow key.

Open Task Manager directly

Task Manager is a useful tool for managing your PC’s performance and troubleshooting issues. You can quickly open Task Manager directly by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

Customizing the Start Menu

The Start Menu is a vital feature of Windows that allows you to quickly access apps and programs. However, customizing it can make it even more efficient. Here’s how to do it:

Pin frequently used apps

Right-click on the app you want to pin, and select Pin to Start. The app will then appear as a tile on the Start Menu, making it easier to access.

Resize the Start Menu

You can resize the Start Menu to make it more efficient. To do this, hover your mouse over the edge of the Start Menu until the cursor changes to a double-sided arrow. Click and drag the edge to resize it.

Quick Access Toolbar

The Quick Access Toolbar is a customizable toolbar that appears above the ribbon in File Explorer and some other Windows apps. It allows you to quickly access frequently used commands. Here’s how to use it:

Add commands

To add a command to the Quick Access Toolbar, right-click on the command and select Add to Quick Access Toolbar. The command will then appear in the toolbar.

Remove commands

To remove a command from the Quick Access Toolbar, right-click on the command and select Remove from Quick Access Toolbar.

GodMode

GodMode is a hidden feature in Windows that provides a centralized location for accessing all the system’s settings and options. Here’s how to enable it:

Create the folder

Right-click on the desktop and select New > Folder.

Rename the folder

Rename the folder with the following name: GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}.

Access the GodMode panel

Double-click on the new folder to access the GodMode panel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these five hidden Windows features can significantly improve productivity and save time for users. Windows key shortcuts, customizing the Start Menu, the Quick Access Toolbar, and GodMode are just a few examples of the many hidden features available in Windows. By taking the time to learn and use these features, users can make their computing experience more efficient and enjoyable.