Adding your most-used apps to the Start screen in Windows 11 is a breeze. In just a few clicks, you can customize your Start menu to show the apps you use the most, making them easily accessible right from the get-go. Let’s jump into how you can get this done!
Step by Step Tutorial: Add Most Used in Windows 11 to the Start Screen
Before we dive into the steps, it’s good to know that by adding your most-used apps to the Start screen, you’re making your computer experience more efficient. Instead of searching for the apps you frequently use, they’ll be right there waiting for you.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu Settings
Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
The Settings app is where all the magic happens. It’s your control center for customizing Windows 11 to work just the way you like it.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Click on ‘Personalization’ in the sidebar of the Settings app.
Personalization is where you can change your wallpaper, theme, and, most importantly, adjust how your Start menu looks and feels.
Step 3: Go to Start
In the Personalization menu, find ‘Start’ and click on it.
This is where you can tweak the Start menu to show your most-used apps.
Step 4: Toggle on ‘Show most used apps’
Look for the toggle that says ‘Show most used apps’ and click on it to turn it on.
And just like that, Windows will now display your most-used apps on the Start screen.
After completing these steps, you’ll notice that the apps you use the most will start to appear on the Start screen. Over time, Windows 11 will learn which apps you use frequently and automatically update this list.
Tips: Streamline Your Start Screen in Windows 11
- Keep an eye on the Start screen over time, as Windows will continue to adjust which apps are shown based on your usage.
- You can manually pin apps to the Start menu by right-clicking on them and selecting ‘Pin to Start.’
- If you want a cleaner look, consider turning off ‘Show recently added apps’ in the same Start menu settings.
- Remember that you can always change the size of the Start menu by dragging its edges.
- Organize your Start screen by dragging and dropping your most-used apps into groups or moving them to the top for even quicker access.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove an app from the most-used list on the Start screen?
To remove an app from the most-used list, right-click on the app and select ‘More’ then ‘Don’t show in this list.’
Can I add folders to the Start screen?
Yes, you can add folders to the Start screen by dragging and dropping them into the Start menu area.
Will my most used apps be the same on different devices?
If you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account, your settings should sync across devices, but the most-used apps are based on individual device usage.
What if I don’t see ‘Show most used apps’ in my settings?
Make sure you’re running the latest version of Windows 11, as this feature may not be available in earlier versions.
Can I still use the search function to find my apps?
Absolutely, the search function is still available and a great way to quickly access any app that isn’t on your Start screen.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Click on ‘Personalization.’
- Select ‘Start.’
- Turn on ‘Show most used apps.’
Conclusion
Customizing your Start screen to show the most-used apps is a fantastic way to streamline your Windows 11 experience. By following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll have quick and easy access to the apps you use every day without having to search for them. But remember, customization is all about making your computer work for you, so don’t be afraid to play around with the settings to get it just right. And if you ever change your mind, it’s just as easy to reverse the changes.
Whether you’re a power user or just someone who likes a bit of convenience, adding the most-used apps to your Start screen is a small change that can make a big difference. So why not give it a try and see how much smoother your workflow can be? Happy customizing, and here’s to a more efficient Windows 11 experience!
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.