If you’re new to Windows 11, it might seem a little different from Windows 10, but most of the core features are familiar. The big change is the look and feel, along with some handy new tools like Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot. Whether you’ve upgraded from Windows 10 or bought a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed, this guide will help you get comfortable with the interface and key features.

The Redesigned Start Menu and How to Use It

One of the first things you’ll notice is the new Start menu. Instead of being on the left side of the screen as in Windows 10, it now floats near the bottom center. It’s smaller and simpler, showing multiple rows of small icons instead of large tiles. You just click an icon to open the app, and you can drag icons around to organize them your way.

You can see all your apps by clicking the “All” button at the top right of the menu. This opens a list in alphabetical order. When you right-click an app, you get a menu with options like moving the icon, creating folders to group similar apps, or unpinning it from the menu. Some apps also let you run them as an administrator or open their file location. If an app is pinned to the taskbar, you can right-click it there to pin or unpin it from the taskbar.

The bottom section of the Start menu includes “Recommended,” which shows recently used apps and files. Clicking a file here opens it quickly. You can right-click files to open them in a browser, share them, or remove them from the list. This feature makes resuming work faster without digging through folders.

Using Search and Managing Your Account

Search is integrated right into the Start menu. At first, it might seem tricky because clicking the search box doesn’t let you type directly. Instead, it opens a search panel where you can type your query. It’s a small change but gets easier with time.

Your user account settings are also accessible from Start. Clicking your profile icon at the bottom left allows you to change your profile picture, switch to a local account, or adjust other account settings. This makes managing your profile straightforward without needing to go deep into system settings.

Other Key Features and Tips for Windows 11

Windows 11 introduces a few new features and updates to existing ones. The taskbar is now centered, giving a more streamlined look, but you can still move it to the left if you prefer. The new Widgets panel offers quick access to news, weather, and other personalized info, which you can toggle on or off.

Microsoft also added Copilot, an AI assistant built into Windows. It can help you write, plan, and find information. While it’s not available to all users yet, it’s a significant upgrade in how you interact with your PC.

Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops are also improved. These features help organize multiple windows and create separate desktops for different tasks, making multitasking easier. Touchscreen and tablet users will find gesture controls and touch-friendly options more integrated, making Windows 11 a flexible experience whether you’re on a traditional PC or a 2-in-1 device.

Windows 11 also emphasizes security. It requires a TPM 2.0 chip for installation, which enhances security features. Microsoft has introduced more robust security measures, especially for enterprise users, to keep data safe.

Getting Used to Minor Changes and Missing Features

Some features from Windows 10 are gone or have been changed. For example, the context menus have a new look, and some traditional options are now accessed differently. Certain Windows apps, like the Clock, cannot be uninstalled anymore, but Microsoft has made it easier to remove some built-in apps over time.

Quick Settings and notifications have been revamped for easier access. You can customize what appears here, and toggling Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and focus modes is now quicker. Touchpad and touchscreen gestures have also been updated to match the new interface, so familiar gestures might behave a little differently.

Keyboard Shortcuts, Gestures, and Tips for Efficiency

To get the most out of Windows 11, learning some keyboard shortcuts can help. For example, pressing Win + Z opens Snap Layouts, while Win + Tab switches to Task View. Touchpad gestures like three-finger swipe or pinching can now do more, depending on your device.

Remember, using a Microsoft ID is essential if you want to sync settings or access certain apps across devices. When setting up Windows 11, signing in with your Microsoft account makes your experience smoother and more integrated.

Getting comfortable with Windows 11 might take a little time, but once you know your way around, it offers a clean, efficient, and powerful way to work and play. Whether you prefer a tablet or a traditional PC, the updates aim to make your daily tasks easier and more enjoyable.

Inspired by

• https://www.computerworld.com/article/1616436/windows-11-cheat-sheet.html

Sources

• gmpg.org
• microsoft.com
• microsoft.com
• microsoft.com
• microsoft.com