Navigating through a cluttered desktop can be a headache, especially if you’re juggling multiple projects or tasks at once. Luckily, Windows 10 has a nifty feature called Multiple Desktops that can help you organize your workspace. In just a few steps, you can create and manage several desktops, each dedicated to different tasks, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.
How to Have Multiple Desktops on Windows 10
This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and using multiple desktops on Windows 10. We’ll cover creating new desktops, switching between them, and closing them when you’re done. Follow along, and you’ll be a multitasking pro in no time.
Step 1: Open Task View
First, click on the Task View button on the taskbar.
The Task View button looks like a rectangle with a smaller rectangle on its left side. If you can’t find it, you can also press "Win + Tab" on your keyboard. This opens up a new screen that shows all your open windows and a bar at the top for creating new desktops.
Step 2: Create a New Desktop
Next, click on the "New Desktop" button located at the top-left corner of the Task View screen.
This will create a brand new desktop, essentially giving you a blank slate. You can switch to this new desktop by clicking on it. You can create multiple desktops by repeating this step, each one acting as a separate workspace.
Step 3: Switch Between Desktops
To switch between desktops, simply open Task View again and click on the desktop you want to switch to.
When you click on a different desktop, all the windows and applications open on that desktop will come into view. This makes it easy to jump between different tasks without closing any windows.
Step 4: Move Windows Between Desktops
You can also move open windows between desktops. Open Task View, then drag and drop the window you want to move onto the desired desktop.
This feature is handy if you accidentally open an application on the wrong desktop or decide to reorganize your spaces. Just drag and drop, and the window will move to the new desktop.
Step 5: Close a Desktop
To close a desktop, open Task View and click the "X" button on the desktop thumbnail you want to close.
Closing a desktop won’t close the apps or windows on it. Instead, those will be moved to the desktop to the left of the one you’re closing. This helps ensure you don’t lose any work while cleaning up your desktops.
After you complete these steps, you’ll find that your workspace becomes much more organized. You can dedicate different desktops for work, personal tasks, or specific projects, and switch between them effortlessly.
Tips for Using Multiple Desktops on Windows 10
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Use "Ctrl + Win + D" to create a new desktop and "Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow" to switch between them quickly.
- Naming Desktops: Unfortunately, Windows 10 doesn’t allow you to name desktops, but you can use different wallpapers as visual cues.
- Taskbar Visibility: By default, the taskbar shows apps open on the current desktop only. You can change this in settings if you prefer to see all apps.
- Performance: Having multiple desktops won’t slow down your computer, but running many applications can. Close unused apps to keep things running smoothly.
- Virtual Desktop Enhancers: Consider third-party software for additional features like naming desktops or enhanced navigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have different backgrounds for each desktop?
No, Windows 10 doesn’t support different backgrounds for each desktop natively. However, third-party software can add this feature.
Do apps run in the background on other desktops?
Yes, applications continue to run in the background even when you switch desktops. You can switch back anytime without losing your work.
Can I rename my desktops?
Windows 10 does not allow you to rename desktops, but you can use third-party applications to add this functionality.
How many desktops can I create?
There is no official limit to the number of desktops you can create, but too many might slow down your system depending on its performance capabilities.
Is this feature available in all versions of Windows 10?
Yes, the Multiple Desktops feature is available in all versions of Windows 10, including Home and Pro.
Summary
- Open Task View.
- Create a New Desktop.
- Switch Between Desktops.
- Move Windows Between Desktops.
- Close a Desktop.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to have multiple desktops on Windows 10, your digital workspace can be as organized as you want it to be. This feature is a game-changer for multitaskers who juggle various projects and need different environments for each one. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily create, manage, and switch between multiple desktops, making your workday more efficient and less chaotic.
If you’re looking for even more customization options, there are several third-party tools available that can extend the functionality of Windows 10’s virtual desktops. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just someone who likes to keep things tidy, multiple desktops are a great way to streamline your computer use.
So go ahead, try it out, and experience the difference. Your computer life just got a whole lot easier! For further reading, Microsoft’s official documentation provides more advanced tips and tricks for mastering this feature.
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.