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10 bad Windows habits you need to break (and what to do instead)

by Nia Walker
2 minutes read

In the world of Windows PC usage, it’s easy to fall into habits that seem adequate but might not be the most efficient. Let’s break down some common bad habits and explore better alternatives to supercharge your workflow.

1. Clicking to Open Apps from the Start Menu

Bad Habit: Clicking through the Start menu can be time-consuming.

Better Alternative: Utilize the search function or pin frequently used apps to the taskbar for quick access.

2. Digging for Folders the Slow Way in File Explorer

Bad Habit: Repeatedly clicking through folders in File Explorer.

Better Alternative: Pin important folders to Quick Access for easy retrieval.

3. Hunting Down Settings Screen by Screen

Bad Habit: Tediously clicking through the Settings app.

Better Alternative: Use the search feature in Settings or press Windows+I to quickly find what you need.

4. Sticking with the Default Start Menu and Taskbar

Bad Habit: Not customizing the taskbar or Start menu.

Better Alternative: Personalize your taskbar and Start menu to suit your preferences and workflow.

5. Manually Positioning and Resizing Windows

Bad Habit: Manually dragging windows around.

Better Alternative: Use Windows Snap feature or advanced tools like FancyZones PowerToy for precise window management.

6. Copy-Pasting the Tedious Way

Bad Habit: Using traditional copy-paste methods.

Better Alternative: Explore the clipboard history feature or advanced clipboard managers like Ditto for enhanced productivity.

7. Capturing Screenshots the Hard Way

Bad Habit: Capturing full-screen screenshots and cropping.

Better Alternative: Use the Windows Snip tool for precise screen captures.

8. Letting Your Startup Apps Pick Themselves

Bad Habit: Allowing unnecessary startup apps to slow down your system.

Better Alternative: Manage startup tasks using Task Manager to improve system performance.

9. Always Using the Mouse

Bad Habit: Over-reliance on the mouse for navigation.

Better Alternative: Learn essential keyboard shortcuts to boost your efficiency on Windows.

10. Rebooting to Fix File Explorer, Desktop, or Taskbar Problems

Bad Habit: Rebooting to resolve minor issues.

Better Alternative: Use Task Manager to restart specific processes like Explorer.exe for quick issue resolution.

By breaking these patterns and adopting more efficient practices, you can streamline your Windows workflow and enhance your overall computing experience. Embrace these alternatives to unlock the full potential of your Windows PC.

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