15 Simple, Secret Windows Tips and Tricks Designed to Save Time

If you’re using Windows every day and still clicking through endless menus or searching for buried settings—this one’s for you.

As someone who’s spent years working on and fixing PCs, I’ve gathered 15 underrated Windows tips and hidden features that can help you work faster, smarter, and with a lot less frustration.

Let’s unlock the time-saving power built right into your computer.

⌨️ 1. Press Windows + V for Clipboard History

Tired of copying something and losing your previous clip? Hit Windows + V to activate clipboard history. You’ll get access to a whole list of recent copied items!

🗂️ 2. Snap Windows with Ease – Use Windows + Arrow Keys

Want to split two windows side by side? Press Windows + Left/Right Arrow to instantly snap the active window. Combine with Up/Down for quarter-screen placement.

🔍 3. Use Windows + S to Search Everything

Instantly find files, apps, or even search the web with Windows + S. It’s faster than hunting through folders or clicking around the Start Menu.

🖱️ 4. Right-Click the Start Button for Power Tools

Skip the regular Start menu. Right-click the Start button (or press Windows + X) to access Device Manager, Disk Management, Task Manager, and more in one spot.

📋 5. Use Alt + Tab to Switch Between Apps Instantly

No need to drag your mouse between open windows. Hold Alt and tap Tab to flip through running apps like a pro.

📸 6. Quick Screenshot Trick – Windows + Shift + S

Need to capture part of your screen? Press Windows + Shift + S to open Snip & Sketch. Just drag to select the area, and it copies right to your clipboard.

🚫 7. Hide Desktop Icons Fast – Right-Click Desktop > View > Uncheck “Show Desktop Icons”

Great for presentations or keeping things distraction-free with just two clicks.

🔕 8. Use Focus Assist to Mute Notifications

Go to Settings > System > Focus Assist to silence notifications during work or gaming. Set rules for automatic focus time, like during full-screen apps.

🧼 9. Free Up Space – Type “Storage Sense” in Search

Enable Storage Sense to automatically clean up junk files, old downloads, and temporary files. Save space without lifting a finger.

⌛ 10. Restart Frozen Apps with Alt + F4

Force close unresponsive apps instantly with Alt + F4. Just make sure you’ve selected the window first!

🔐 11. Lock Your PC in a Second – Windows + L

Stepping away from your computer? Hit Windows + L to lock it instantly. Perfect for security, especially in shared spaces.

🔁 12. Rotate Your Screen – Ctrl + Alt + Arrow Keys

Accidentally flipped your screen? Or want to rotate it for a second monitor? Use this shortcut to switch screen orientation fast.

🔍 13. Use the Hidden “God Mode” Folder

Create a folder named:

It unlocks a master control panel with all system settings in one place!

🧭 14. Shake to Minimize All Other Windows

Grab the top of one window and “shake” it—everything else minimizes instantly. Shake again to bring them back. Try it—it’s addictive.

🧱 15. Use Virtual Desktops – Windows + Ctrl + D

Need a clean slate while working? Create a new desktop with Windows + Ctrl + D. Switch between desktops with Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow.

💬 Final Thoughts

Most people only scratch the surface of what Windows can do—but these simple tricks can shave off seconds (and headaches) every day. Try adding just 3–5 of them to your daily routine and watch your productivity jump.

Which tip was your favorite? Bookmark this post, and share it with a friend who could use a little tech wisdom.