Minimizing all windows on Windows 11 is a simple task that can be achieved with just a few clicks or keyboard shortcuts. This can be especially useful when you want to quickly declutter your desktop or access a file on your desktop without closing all your open applications. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Minimize All Windows on Windows 11
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand that minimizing all windows will help you quickly clear your screen without closing any programs. This can come in handy when you need to find something on your desktop or just want a clean slate to start a new task.
Step 1: Use the Show Desktop Button
Click on the small vertical line at the far right of the taskbar.
This button is also known as the "Show Desktop" button. When you click it, all your open windows will minimize, and you’ll be taken straight to your desktop.
Step 2: Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Press the Windows key + D on your keyboard.
This keyboard shortcut is a quick and efficient way to minimize all windows. It’s especially useful if you’re a fan of keyboard shortcuts and want to avoid using the mouse.
Step 3: Right-click on the Taskbar
Right-click on an empty space on the taskbar and select "Show the desktop."
This method is another alternative to minimize all windows. It’s particularly useful if you have too many windows open and the "Show Desktop" button is not visible.
Once you’ve minimized all the windows, you’ll see your desktop with all your icons and background. You can then open any window again by clicking on its icon on the taskbar or using the same shortcuts to bring all windows back up.
Tips on How to Minimize All Windows on Windows 11
- You can also use the Windows key + M to minimize all windows. However, this shortcut does not allow you to restore minimized windows with the same keys.
- If you have multiple displays, these methods will minimize windows only on the display that is currently active.
- You can also create a desktop shortcut to minimize all windows. To do this, right-click on your desktop, select "New," then "Shortcut," and enter "rundll32.exe DwmApi #105" in the location field.
- If you want to minimize windows except the one you’re currently working on, you can grab the title bar of the window, shake it back and forth quickly, and all other windows will minimize.
- Remember that minimizing windows does not close the programs, so any running processes will continue in the background.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I undo the action of minimizing all windows?
To restore all your minimized windows, you can click on the "Show Desktop" button again, press the Windows key + D, or right-click on the taskbar and select "Show open windows."
Can I minimize all windows on one monitor in a multi-monitor setup?
Yes, the methods provided will minimize windows on the active monitor. To minimize windows on a different monitor, you’ll need to make that monitor active first by clicking anywhere on it.
Is there a way to minimize all windows except for the one I’m currently using?
Yes, you can click and hold the title bar of the window you’re using and give it a quick shake back and forth. This will minimize all other windows.
Can I create a keyboard shortcut to minimize all windows?
While there’s no direct way to create a custom keyboard shortcut, you can create a desktop shortcut and assign a keyboard shortcut to it through its properties.
Will minimizing all windows also minimize full-screen applications?
Most full-screen applications will remain unaffected when you use these methods to minimize windows. They often require their specific keyboard shortcuts to be minimized or closed.
Summary
- Use the Show Desktop button.
- Use keyboard shortcuts.
- Right-click on the taskbar.
Conclusion
Minimizing all windows on Windows 11 is a breeze, and it can really help you manage a cluttered desktop or quickly access files and programs on your desktop. Whether you prefer using the handy "Show Desktop" button, keyboard shortcuts, or the taskbar menu, the process is straightforward and easy to remember. Plus, with the additional tips provided, you can customize the experience to fit your workflow even better. And if you ever need to bring back all those windows, it’s just as simple to restore them. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the simplicity and efficiency of a clean desktop on Windows 11.
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.