Do you want to switch between apps, go to your desktop, or just make your screen look neater in a snap? Full-screen keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11 can help you do just that! This quick guide will show you how to use these shortcuts easily and effectively.
Step by Step Tutorial: Using Full Screen Keyboard Shortcuts on Windows 11
Let’s dive into the steps you can take to use full-screen keyboard shortcuts on your Windows 11 device. These shortcuts will help you navigate and manage your applications and windows with ease.
Step 1: Learn the basic full-screen shortcut keys
The first step is to familiarize yourself with the basic full-screen shortcut keys.
For most applications, you can enter full-screen mode by pressing the “F11” key. This will remove the title bar, taskbar, and any other distractions, allowing you to focus solely on the app content.
Step 2: Use ALT + TAB to switch between apps
To quickly switch between your open applications, press “ALT + TAB.”
This shortcut will bring up a small window showing all your open apps. Keep holding “ALT” and press “TAB” until you highlight the app you want to switch to, then release both keys.
Step 3: Show the desktop with Windows + D
If you want to minimize all open windows and go to your desktop, press “Windows + D.”
This shortcut is handy when you want to clear the screen quickly and access files or folders on the desktop.
Step 4: Snap windows using Windows + Arrow keys
For multitasking, you can snap windows to the side of the screen by pressing “Windows + Arrow keys.”
Press “Windows + Left/Right Arrow” to snap the active window to the left or right half of the screen. You can then select another window to fill the other half for a split-screen view.
Step 5: Open Task View with Windows + Tab
To see all your open windows at once, press “Windows + Tab.”
This will open Task View, giving you a birds-eye view of all your open applications. From here, you can click on any window to bring it into focus.
After completing these steps, you’ll be able to navigate and manage your Windows 11 applications like a pro, all with just a few keystrokes!
Tips for Using Full Screen Keyboard Shortcuts on Windows 11
- Remember that not all applications support full-screen mode; some might behave differently or not respond to “F11.”
- You can customize the “ALT + TAB” behavior in Windows Settings to switch between all tabs in Edge or just the last three or five tabs.
- “Windows + M” also minimizes all windows, but it doesn’t show the desktop like “Windows + D” does.
- Experiment with snapping more than two windows on the screen, especially if you have a large monitor or multiple monitors.
- Use “Windows + Ctrl + D” to create a new virtual desktop, which can help keep your work organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the F11 key doesn’t work?
Some applications might not support full-screen mode, or they might use a different key or combination of keys. Check the app’s help section or settings to find the correct shortcut.
Can I switch between virtual desktops with a keyboard shortcut?
Yes, you can use “Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow” to move between virtual desktops.
Is there a way to customize these shortcuts?
Some shortcuts can be customized in Windows Settings, under the “Keyboard” section. However, most system-level shortcuts, like “Windows + D,” cannot be changed.
Are these shortcuts the same for Windows 10?
Many of the shortcuts are the same, but there might be slight differences. Check the Windows support page for the specific version you’re using.
Can I use these shortcuts while in a game or other full-screen application?
It depends on the game or application. Some might override Windows shortcuts or have their own set of keyboard commands.
Summary
- Learn the basic full-screen shortcut keys.
- Use “ALT + TAB” to switch between apps.
- Press “Windows + D” to show the desktop.
- Snap windows with “Windows + Arrow keys.”
- Open Task View with “Windows + Tab.”
Conclusion
Mastering full-screen keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11 can significantly boost your productivity and help you manage your workspace with ease. It’s all about efficiency and being able to navigate through your apps and windows without reaching for the mouse. The shortcuts we’ve discussed are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what you can do with Windows 11.
As you become more comfortable with these shortcuts, you’ll find yourself working faster and more efficiently. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you use these shortcuts, the more they’ll become second nature. So, go ahead, give them a try, and see how much smoother your computer usage can be. Whether you’re a busy professional, a multitasking student, or anyone in between, using full-screen keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11 is a skill worth acquiring.
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.