10 Bad Windows Habits You Need to Break (and What to Do Instead)
We all have our routines, especially when it comes to using our Windows PCs. However, some of these habits might not be as efficient or effective as they could be. Let’s dive into ten common bad Windows habits and explore how you can break them to enhance your computing experience.
1. Clicking to Open Apps from the Start Menu
Clicking through the Start menu to find and open apps can be time-consuming. Instead, utilize the search function by typing the app’s name directly into the Start menu. Pin frequently used apps to your taskbar or at the top of the Start menu for quick access. Additionally, consider creating custom keyboard shortcuts for your most-used applications.
2. Digging for Folders the Slow Way in File Explorer
Avoid repeatedly clicking through folders in File Explorer by pinning important folders to Quick Access. This feature makes essential folders easily accessible in File Explorer’s sidebar, saving you time and streamlining your workflow.
3. Hunting Down Settings Screen by Screen
Rather than navigating through the Settings app manually, use the search feature within the app or press Windows+I to quickly find specific settings. This method helps you locate settings efficiently without the need for extensive clicking and searching.
4. Sticking with the Default Start Menu and Taskbar
Customize your taskbar and Start menu to suit your preferences and optimize your workflow. Unpin unnecessary items and pin important shortcuts for easy access. Explore customization options in Windows 11’s Settings menu to tailor your Start menu and taskbar to your liking.
5. Manually Positioning and Resizing Windows
Utilize Windows’ Snap feature for easy window management. Experiment with shortcuts like Windows+Left arrow and Windows+Right arrow or explore tools like FancyZones PowerToy for advanced window positioning control, enhancing multitasking capabilities on your PC.
6. Copy-Pasting the Tedious Way
Explore Windows’ clipboard history feature by pressing Windows+V to access recently copied items. This tool streamlines the copy-paste process, allowing you to pin frequently used items for quick access. Consider advanced clipboard managers like Ditto for enhanced functionality.
7. Capturing Screenshots the Hard Way
Efficiently capture and share screen content by using the Windows+Shift+S shortcut to select and capture specific areas. This method eliminates the need to capture full-screen shots and simplifies the screenshot process for improved productivity.
8. Letting Your Startup Apps Pick Themselves
Optimize your PC’s startup process by managing startup tasks in the Task Manager. Disable unnecessary startup items to reduce login time, declutter your system tray, and enhance system performance by conserving resources.
9. Always Using the Mouse
Enhance your PC navigation speed by learning and utilizing essential keyboard shortcuts. Incorporate shortcuts like Windows+E for File Explorer, Ctrl+Shift+Esc for Task Manager, and Windows+I for Settings to boost your efficiency and productivity.
10. Rebooting to Fix File Explorer, Desktop, or Taskbar Problems
Instead of resorting to a full reboot for minor issues, restart the Explorer process using the Task Manager. Locate and restart the explorer.exe process to resolve desktop, taskbar, or File Explorer-related problems swiftly, saving time and maintaining your workflow continuity.
By breaking these common bad Windows habits and adopting more efficient practices, you can streamline your workflow, boost productivity, and make the most of your Windows PC experience. Embrace these changes to optimize your computing habits and enhance your overall efficiency.