Five Tips to Optimize Windows Taskbar on PC and Notebook
The Windows taskbar is an essential feature of the Microsoft operating system, providing quick access to frequently used applications, files, and functions. Here are five tips to help you optimize your Windows taskbar for increased productivity and efficiency.
1. Reorder and Group Taskbar Icons
By default, the taskbar arranges icons in alphabetical order. However, you can customize the arrangement to better suit your workflow by dragging and dropping icons into the desired position. Additionally, group similar applications together by right-clicking on an icon, selecting "Group," and then dragging other related icons under it.
2. Pin and Unpin Icons
Pinning frequently used applications to the taskbar allows for easy access without having to search through the Start menu or file explorer. To pin an application, right-click on its icon and select "Pin to Taskbar." Conversely, unpin an icon by right-clicking on it and selecting "Unpin from Taskbar."
3. Customize Notification Icons
Customizing notification icons allows you to control the visibility of notifications for individual applications. Right-click on an application icon, select "Properties," and then adjust the "Notifications" tab settings according to your preferences. You can choose to display notifications only when the app window is active or always show them, among other options.
4. Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts help streamline tasks by reducing the need for mouse clicks. Here are some common taskbar-related keyboard shortcuts:
Win + Tab: Open Task View to switch between open applications.Win + E: Open File Explorer.Ctrl + Tabin a browser window: Cycle through open tabs in that window.
5. Set Up Auto-Hide and Toolbars
Customizing the auto-hide behavior and toolbars can help declutter your taskbar and make it more visually appealing. To enable auto-hide, right-click on an empty area of the taskbar, select "Properties," go to the "Notification area" tab, and check the "Automatically hide the taskbar when no windows are open in this area" box. Additionally, you can add toolbars like the Address or Links toolbar by right-clicking on an empty area of the taskbar, selecting "Toolbars," and choosing which one to add.