Switching windows in Windows 10 is a handy skill that can make your computer use more efficient. Whether you’re juggling multiple projects, browsing the internet, or just trying to stay organized, knowing how to quickly switch between open windows will save you time and effort. Here’s a quick overview: You can use keyboard shortcuts like Alt + Tab, Task View, or even the Taskbar to switch between windows easily.
Step-by-Step Tutorial for Switching Windows in Windows 10
In this tutorial, you’ll learn multiple ways to switch between open windows in Windows 10. Each method has its own set of steps and benefits.
Step 1: Use Alt + Tab
Press and hold the Alt key, then press the Tab key to cycle through open windows.
When you hold down the Alt key, you’ll see thumbnails of all your open windows. Keep pressing Tab until you highlight the window you want to switch to, then release both keys.
Step 2: Use Task View
Click the Task View button on the Taskbar or press Windows key + Tab to open Task View.
Task View shows all your open windows and virtual desktops in a bird’s-eye view. Click on any window to bring it to the foreground.
Step 3: Use the Taskbar
Click on the icon of the open window you want to switch to on the Taskbar.
The Taskbar at the bottom of your screen shows icons for all open windows. Clicking an icon will bring that window to the front.
Step 4: Use Virtual Desktops
Open Task View, then click “New Desktop” to create a new virtual desktop.
Virtual desktops let you organize your windows into different workspaces. You can switch between them in Task View, making it easier to manage multiple projects.
Step 5: Use the Windows + Arrow Keys
Press Windows key + any Arrow key to snap a window to the side of your screen, then switch to another window.
This method lets you quickly arrange windows side by side, making multitasking a breeze.
Once you’ve completed these actions, you’ll be able to switch between open windows effortlessly, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.
Tips for Switching Windows in Windows 10
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with shortcuts like Alt + Tab and Windows key + Tab to speed up your window switching.
- Pin Frequent Apps: Pin your most-used apps to the Taskbar for quick access.
- Organize with Virtual Desktops: Use virtual desktops to separate work and personal tasks, making it easier to switch contexts.
- Customization: Customize your Taskbar and Task View settings to match your workflow.
- Practice: The more you use these methods, the quicker and more natural the process will become.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I quickly switch between two windows?
Use the Alt + Tab shortcut. Hold Alt and press Tab until you highlight the window you want, then release both keys.
Can I switch windows using the mouse?
Yes, you can use the Taskbar to switch windows. Just click on the window’s icon on the Taskbar.
What are virtual desktops?
Virtual desktops allow you to create separate workspaces on your computer, each with its own set of open windows and apps.
How do I view all open windows at once?
Use Task View by pressing Windows key + Tab or clicking the Task View button on the Taskbar.
Can I customize the order of windows in Alt + Tab?
No, you can’t customize the order, but you can cycle through the windows by repeatedly pressing the Tab key while holding Alt.
Summary
- Press and hold Alt + Tab to cycle through open windows.
- Open Task View with Windows key + Tab.
- Click on the Taskbar icon of the open window you want.
- Create new virtual desktops in Task View.
- Use Windows key + Arrow keys to snap windows to the screen edges.
Conclusion
Mastering how to switch windows in Windows 10 can dramatically improve your productivity and efficiency. Whether you’re a student juggling multiple assignments, a professional managing several projects, or just someone who likes to keep various tasks organized, these methods will help you navigate your computer like a pro.
While keyboard shortcuts like Alt + Tab and Windows key + Tab offer quick switching, don’t forget about the power of the Taskbar and virtual desktops. These features not only streamline your workflow but also provide a cleaner, more organized desktop experience.
Keep practicing these methods to make them second nature. Soon enough, you’ll be switching between windows with the speed and grace of a seasoned computer pro. If you found this article helpful, be sure to explore other Windows 10 tips and tricks to continue improving your computing skills.
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.