How to Use Windows 10’s Task View and Virtual Desktops

Windows 10 introduced Task View and virtual desktops as powerful features to help users manage multiple applications and tasks more efficiently. These features are particularly useful for multitasking and keeping your workspace organized. Below, I will guide you through how to use Task View and virtual desktops in Windows 10.

Using Task View

Task View allows you to quickly switch between open applications and windows. Here’s how to use it:

Accessing Task View

1. Using the Task View Button:

• Click on the Task View button located on the taskbar, just to the left of the Cortana search box.

1. Using the Keyboard Shortcut:

• Press Windows + Tab to open Task View.

Managing Windows in Task View

1. Switching Between Windows:

• In Task View, you will see thumbnails of all open windows. Click on the thumbnail of the window you want to switch to.

1. Arranging Windows:

• You can drag and drop windows to rearrange them in Task View. This can help you quickly find the window you need.

1. Closing Windows:

• Hover over a window thumbnail and click the Close button (X) that appears to close that window.

Using Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops allow you to create separate workspaces for different tasks or projects. Here’s how to use them:

Creating a New Virtual Desktop

1. Using Task View:

• Open Task View by clicking the button on the taskbar or pressing Windows + Tab.
• Click on New desktop in the bottom-right corner of the Task View window.

1. Using the Keyboard Shortcut:

• Press Ctrl + Windows + D to create a new virtual desktop.

Switching Between Virtual Desktops

1. Using Task View:

• Open Task View and click on the thumbnail of the virtual desktop you want to switch to.

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Press Ctrl + Windows + Left Arrow or Ctrl + Windows + Right Arrow to switch between virtual desktops.

Managing Virtual Desktops

1. Renaming a Virtual Desktop:

• Open Task View and hover over the virtual desktop you want to rename.
• Click on the Rename button that appears and enter a new name.

1. Closing a Virtual Desktop:

• Open Task View and hover over the virtual desktop you want to close.
• Click on the Close button (X) that appears. Note that this will close all windows on that desktop.

Tips for Effective Use

Organizing Your Work

• Separate Projects: Create different virtual desktops for different projects or tasks. For example, you might have one desktop for work, one for personal tasks, and one for entertainment.
• Pin Applications: Pin frequently used applications to the taskbar so they are easily accessible from any virtual desktop.

Customizing Task View

• Custom Thumbnails: You can customize the appearance of thumbnails in Task View by right-clicking on a window and selecting Pin to taskbar or Pin to Start.
• Group Windows: Group related windows together in Task View by dragging and dropping them into the same virtual desktop.

Conclusion

Task View and virtual desktops in Windows 10 are powerful tools for managing multiple tasks and applications efficiently. By using these features, you can keep your workspace organized, switch between tasks quickly, and improve your overall productivity. Whether you are working on multiple projects or just trying to keep your desktop tidy, Task View and virtual desktops can help you stay focused and efficient.