Going full screen on Windows 11 is a piece of cake. You can do it by pressing the F11 key or by using the maximize button in the top-right corner of the window. Once you know these simple steps, you can easily switch any window to full screen mode. Now, let’s get into the details.
How to Go Full Screen on Windows 11
These steps will show you how to maximize your screen space by going full screen on Windows 11.
Step 1: Press the F11 key
Simply press the F11 key on your keyboard.
Pressing F11 is the quickest way to make most windows go full screen. This method works for browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, as well as other applications.
Step 2: Use the maximize button
Click the maximize button (the square icon) in the top-right corner of the window.
If F11 doesn’t work or you prefer using a mouse, this is a handy alternative. Clicking the maximize button will enlarge the window to fill the screen, giving you more space for whatever you’re working on.
Step 3: Use the Settings menu
Open the app’s settings and look for a “Full Screen” option.
Some apps have their own full screen settings. For instance, in video players, you might find a full screen button within the playback controls.
Step 4: Use keyboard shortcuts
Use other keyboard shortcuts like Windows key + Up Arrow to maximize the window.
Windows 11 supports various keyboard shortcuts that help you control window sizes and positions. Using the Windows key + Up Arrow will maximize your window, almost like full screen.
Step 5: Drag the window
Drag the window to the top of the screen until it snaps into full screen mode.
This is another simple trick. Just click and hold the title bar of the window and drag it to the top of your screen to make it full screen.
After you complete these actions, your window will take up the entire screen, giving you a more immersive experience. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, or working on a project, full screen mode can help you stay focused.
Tips for Going Full Screen on Windows 11
- Check Compatibility: Not all apps support full screen mode. If an app doesn’t go full screen with F11 or maximize button, it might not support it.
- Use Multiple Monitors: If you have more than one monitor, you can go full screen on any of them by following the same steps.
- Use Virtual Desktops: Windows 11 allows you to create virtual desktops. You can go full screen on a virtual desktop to keep your workspace organized.
- Remember Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with other useful keyboard shortcuts like Windows key + Down Arrow to restore the window.
- Know How to Exit: To exit full screen mode, you can press F11 again or use the Esc key, depending on the app.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I exit full screen mode?
Press the F11 key or use the Esc key to exit full screen mode.
Can I go full screen on any app?
Most apps support full screen mode, but some might not. If F11 or the maximize button doesn’t work, the app might not support it.
What if F11 doesn’t work?
Try using the maximize button or check the app’s settings for a full screen option.
Can I use full screen mode with multiple monitors?
Yes, you can go full screen on any monitor by following the same steps.
Are there other keyboard shortcuts for full screen?
Yes, you can use Windows key + Up Arrow to maximize the window, which is similar to full screen.
Step-by-Step Summary
- Press the F11 key.
- Use the maximize button.
- Open the app’s settings for a full screen option.
- Use keyboard shortcuts.
- Drag the window to the top of the screen.
Conclusion
Going full screen on Windows 11 is straightforward and can enhance your computing experience. Whether you’re watching a movie, working on a document, or just want to clear away distractions, knowing how to use full screen mode is incredibly useful. These simple steps and tips should help you master this feature in no time.
For further reading, you can explore Windows 11’s official documentation or community forums to learn more about other features. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make the most out of your Windows 11 experience!
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.