Closing desktops on Windows 10 is easy and helps keep your workspace organized. You can use simple keyboard shortcuts or navigate through the task view to close any extra desktops you don’t need. This guide will show you various methods to complete this task.
How to Close Desktops on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through four simple steps to close desktops on Windows 10. These steps will ensure you can manage your virtual desktops efficiently.
Step 1: Open Task View
First, press the "Windows" key and the "Tab" key simultaneously to open Task View.
Task View will display all your open windows and virtual desktops. It’s like spreading out all your papers on a desk so you can see everything at once.
Step 2: Select the Desktop You Want to Close
Next, hover your mouse over the desktop thumbnail you wish to close.
You’ll see a row of desktop previews at the top of the Task View window. Each one represents a different virtual desktop. Hovering over them will give you a closer look.
Step 3: Close the Desktop
Click the "X" button that appears on the desktop thumbnail you want to close.
This action will immediately close the selected desktop. Don’t worry, any open windows on that desktop will automatically move to your main desktop, so you won’t lose any work.
Step 4: Confirm the Desktop is Closed
Finally, verify that the desktop has been closed by checking the remaining desktop thumbnails in Task View.
If the desktop you closed is no longer in the row of previews, then you have successfully closed it.
After completing these steps, your unnecessary virtual desktops will be closed, and any open windows will be moved to your main desktop. This helps in decluttering your workspace and making it easier to find the windows you need.
Tips for Closing Desktops on Windows 10
- Regularly check your Task View to manage open desktops and keep things organized.
- Use "Ctrl + Windows + Left/Right Arrow" to quickly switch between desktops without opening Task View.
- Name your desktops (in Windows 11 and newer) for better organization and easier navigation.
- Use virtual desktops to separate workspaces; for example, keep work apps on one desktop and personal apps on another.
- Always save your work before closing a desktop to avoid any accidental data loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close all desktops at once?
No, you cannot close all desktops simultaneously. You have to close them one by one through Task View.
Will closing a desktop delete my open windows?
No, closing a desktop will move its open windows to the main desktop, so nothing will be lost.
How many virtual desktops can I create?
Windows 10 doesn’t set a hard limit, but performance might slow down if you create too many.
Can I reopen a closed desktop?
No, once a desktop is closed, it cannot be reopened. You can create a new one, but it won’t have the old windows.
What’s the difference between closing a window and closing a desktop?
Closing a window shuts down a single application, while closing a desktop removes the entire virtual workspace but keeps the applications open.
Summary
- Press "Windows + Tab" to open Task View.
- Hover over the desktop you want to close.
- Click the "X" button on the desktop thumbnail.
- Verify the desktop is closed in Task View.
Conclusion
Managing your virtual desktops on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your workflow. By following these steps, you can easily close unnecessary desktops and keep your workspace neat and organized. Don’t forget to regularly check your Task View and utilize shortcuts to make navigation easier. Virtual desktops are a powerful feature when used effectively, so make use of them wisely to enhance your productivity. If you have more questions or want to explore further tips on managing Windows 10 features, feel free to dive into other articles.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.