Switching between apps in Windows 11 is a breeze once you get the hang of it. It’s all about using keyboard shortcuts and taskbar tricks to jump from one app to another without breaking a sweat. We’ll go over a few methods, and by the end, you’ll be flipping between apps like a pro.
How to Switch Between Apps in Windows 11
Switching between apps in Windows 11 is super easy. The steps below will show you how to do it using different methods, from keyboard shortcuts to using the taskbar.
Step 1: Press Alt + Tab
Hold down the Alt key and then press the Tab key to see all open apps.
The Alt + Tab combo is a classic. When you press this, a window showing thumbnails of your open apps pops up. Keep holding Alt and press Tab to move through the apps. When you release Alt, the highlighted app becomes active.
Step 2: Use Windows Key + Tab
Press the Windows key and the Tab key to open Task View.
Task View not only shows your open apps but also your desktops. This is great for those who use multiple virtual desktops. You can click on any app to switch to it or create a new desktop if needed.
Step 3: Click on Taskbar Icons
Click on any app icon on the taskbar to switch to that app.
The taskbar is your quick-access hub. All your open apps are here. Just click on an app’s icon, and boom, you’re there. If the app isn’t open, clicking the icon will launch it.
Step 4: Use Alt + Esc
Press the Alt key and the Esc key together to cycle through open apps.
This method skips the thumbnail view and directly switches between your open apps. It’s like Alt + Tab but without the visual aid. Keep pressing Alt + Esc until you land on the app you want.
Step 5: Snap Assist
Drag a window to the edge of the screen to activate Snap Assist.
Snap Assist is handy for multitasking. When you drag a window to the edge, it snaps to that side and shows thumbnails of other open apps. Click on any thumbnail to snap it to the other side of the screen, allowing you to view two apps side by side.
After completing these steps, you should be able to switch between apps in Windows 11 quickly and efficiently. This will make multitasking smoother and enhance your productivity.
Tips for Switching Between Apps in Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Memorize shortcuts like Alt + Tab and Windows Key + Tab for quick access.
- Organize Your Taskbar: Pin frequently used apps to the taskbar for easy access.
- Use Multiple Desktops: Separate work and personal apps by using multiple virtual desktops.
- Snap Windows: Use Snap Assist to arrange windows side by side for better multitasking.
- Task Manager: Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to quickly switch or end tasks if an app becomes unresponsive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the quickest way to switch between apps?
Using the Alt + Tab shortcut is the quickest way to switch between open apps.
Can I customize Alt + Tab settings?
Yes, you can customize how Alt + Tab works by going to Settings > System > Multitasking.
How do I add apps to the taskbar?
Right-click on an app and select “Pin to taskbar” to add it to your taskbar.
What if an app is not responding?
Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to force close the unresponsive app.
Can I switch between apps using touch gestures?
Yes, if you have a touchscreen, you can use swipe gestures to switch between apps.
Summary of Steps
- Press Alt + Tab.
- Use Windows Key + Tab.
- Click on Taskbar Icons.
- Use Alt + Esc.
- Snap Assist.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of switching between apps in Windows 11 can significantly boost your productivity. With a few keyboard shortcuts and some taskbar organization, you’ll find yourself navigating through your workday with ease. If you’re new to Windows 11, take some time to get familiar with these tips and tricks. Practice makes perfect, and before you know it, you’ll be switching between apps like a seasoned pro.
For further reading, you might want to explore more about Windows 11 features and customization options. This will not only make your experience smoother but also more personalized. Happy multitasking!
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.