How to Minimize the Screen on Windows 11

Minimize a Window with a Simple Click

Minimizing a window in Windows 11 is as straightforward as ever, though you might find it even more streamlined than previous versions of Windows. Here's a simple guide:

1. Click the Minimize Button: The easiest way to minimize a window is by clicking the minimize button. You’ll find this button (a dash symbol) in the top-right corner of any open window. When you click it, the window will shrink down to the taskbar, removing it from view but keeping it active.

2. Use the Taskbar to Minimize: If you have multiple windows open, you can quickly minimize any of them by right-clicking the window icon on the taskbar and selecting "Minimize." It’s a handy option if you prefer using the mouse without navigating to the top of the screen.

3. Keyboard Shortcut: For those who love keyboard shortcuts, minimizing a window can be done by pressing Windows + Down Arrow. If the window is maximized, pressing Windows + Down Arrow once will return it to its original size, and pressing it again will minimize it.

4. Shake to Minimize: Windows 11 retains the "Aero Shake" feature, though it may be disabled by default. You can enable it via the settings. Once activated, simply click and hold the title bar of the window you want to keep open, then shake it back and forth. This will minimize all other open windows, providing you with a clutter-free workspace.

Snap Layouts: A New Way to Manage Windows

Windows 11 introduces Snap Layouts, one of the most significant updates to window management. With Snap Layouts, you can easily organize multiple windows on your screen.

1. Using Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button of any window, and you’ll see a grid of layout options. Choose the one that suits your needs, and Windows will automatically position the window. This feature lets you quickly arrange multiple windows into different layouts—ideal for multitasking.

2. Snapping Windows with Keyboard Shortcuts: You can also use Windows + Left/Right Arrow to snap a window to the side of the screen, while Windows + Up/Down Arrow will snap it to the top or bottom. Combining these shortcuts with Shift lets you move the windows around even more fluidly.

3. Adjusting Snap Layout Preferences: You can customize Snap Layouts by going to Settings > System > Multitasking. From there, you can choose how Snap works, including adjusting the size of snapped windows or enabling/disable snap assist prompts.

Task View and Virtual Desktops

Another powerful feature in Windows 11 is Task View, accessible through the Windows + Tab shortcut or by clicking the Task View button on the taskbar. Task View allows you to create and manage Virtual Desktops. If you’re managing multiple projects or tasks, you can organize them into separate desktops, minimizing distractions.

1. Switch Between Desktops: Create new desktops and switch between them by clicking on Task View and selecting the desktop you want to work on. Each desktop can have its own set of windows open, giving you a clean slate for each task.

2. Drag Windows Between Desktops: You can also drag windows between desktops within Task View, allowing for an even more customizable workflow. For example, keep all your work-related applications on one desktop and your personal apps on another.

Hidden Features: The Power of Middle-Click

Not many people are aware of this, but you can middle-click on a window’s taskbar icon to quickly minimize it. This shortcut works well when you have several instances of an application open, such as multiple browser windows or document editors.

1. Minimize with Middle-Click: Simply hover over the application icon in the taskbar and use the middle mouse button to minimize the active window. Middle-click again to reopen it.

2. Multiple Instances: If there are multiple windows open for the same application, you’ll be able to minimize and restore each of them individually using middle-click. This method works best when multitasking across different instances of apps like web browsers or file explorers.

Customizing Window Behavior in Settings

Windows 11 gives you significant control over how your windows behave. Here’s how you can access and tweak these settings:

1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, then navigate to System > Multitasking.

2. Toggle Snap Layouts: From here, you can toggle Snap windows, which controls how windows automatically adjust when dragged to the edges of the screen.

3. Shake to Minimize: If you find "Aero Shake" useful, make sure it’s enabled in this settings area.

Closing Thoughts: Mastering Window Management

Managing windows efficiently can drastically improve your productivity. Whether you’re using the standard minimize button, keyboard shortcuts, or advanced features like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops, Windows 11 offers a versatile set of tools to tailor your workspace. And with each new feature, from middle-click tricks to the streamlined Task View, Windows 11 is truly built for multitaskers.

Experiment with these features and find the combination that best suits your work habits. The more you use them, the more second nature they will become, turning you into a true Windows 11 power user.

Happy minimizing!