Changing desktops in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that lets you organize your workspace more efficiently. Here’s how you can do it: Use the Task View button on the taskbar, click on “New Desktop,” and switch between your desktops using the Task View button or the keyboard shortcuts Win + Ctrl + Left/Right arrow. This guide will walk you through these steps in more detail.
How to Change Desktops in Windows 11
Changing desktops in Windows 11 allows you to create separate workspaces for different tasks, helping you stay organized and focused. Follow these steps to master this functionality:
Step 1: Open Task View
Click the Task View button on your taskbar.
The Task View button looks like two overlapping rectangles and is usually located next to the Start button. If you don’t see it, you can enable it by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting “Task View Button.”
Step 2: Create a New Desktop
Click on the “New Desktop” button.
Once you open Task View, you’ll see an option labeled “New Desktop” at the bottom right. Clicking this will create a new, blank desktop for you to use.
Step 3: Switch Between Desktops
Use the Task View button or keyboard shortcuts to switch between your desktops.
To switch desktops, you can either click the Task View button again and select the desktop you want to switch to, or use the keyboard shortcuts Win + Ctrl + Left/Right arrow for quick navigation.
Step 4: Move Windows Between Desktops
Drag and drop windows from one desktop to another.
In Task View, you can see all your open windows. Just drag any window to the desktop you prefer, making it easy to organize your tasks.
Step 5: Close a Desktop
Click the “X” on the desktop thumbnail you want to close.
In Task View, hover over the desktop thumbnail you want to remove and click the “X” that appears in the top right corner. All open apps on that desktop will move to another active desktop.
After following these steps, you will have different workspaces for different tasks, making it easier to manage your open windows and stay organized.
Tips for Changing Desktops in Windows 11
- You can rename each desktop for easier identification by right-clicking the desktop thumbnail in Task View and selecting “Rename.”
- Customize each desktop with different wallpapers by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Personalize.”
- Use the Win + Tab keyboard shortcut to quickly open Task View.
- Group similar tasks or projects on separate desktops to minimize distractions.
- Use the Snap Layout feature to organize windows within each desktop for even better multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Task View in Windows 11?
Task View is a feature that lets you create and manage virtual desktops and shows all your open windows in one place.
Can I have different wallpapers on each desktop?
Yes, you can customize each desktop with a different wallpaper for better visual separation.
How many desktops can I create in Windows 11?
There’s no hard limit, but creating too many desktops may affect system performance.
Can I move an app from one desktop to another?
Yes, you can drag and drop apps between desktops in Task View.
What happens to my apps when I close a desktop?
All open apps on the closed desktop will move to the nearest active desktop.
Summary of How to Change Desktops in Windows 11
- Open Task View.
- Create a New Desktop.
- Switch Between Desktops.
- Move Windows Between Desktops.
- Close a Desktop.
Conclusion
Changing desktops in Windows 11 is a game-changer for productivity. With just a few clicks, you can create multiple workspaces tailored to your needs. Whether you’re a student juggling different subjects, a professional managing various projects, or just someone who likes to keep things organized, virtual desktops are your new best friend.
If you found this guide helpful, why not explore more Windows 11 features? There’s a whole world of productivity hacks waiting for you. And remember, the more you use these features, the more second-nature they’ll become. So go ahead, dive in, and make your Windows 11 experience uniquely yours.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.