Windows 10 is a powerful operating system with a plethora of features, but not all of them are immediately visible. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, there are hidden tricks and shortcuts that can save you time, boost productivity, and make your experience smoother. In this article, we’ll explore 10 hidden Windows 10 tricks that you might not know about.
1. Virtual Desktops for Better Multitasking
Virtual desktops allow you to organize your workspace by creating separate desktops for different tasks.
- How to Use:
- Press Win + Tab to open Task View.
- Click “New Desktop” to create a virtual desktop.
- Switch between desktops using Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow.
Why It’s Useful: Keep your work, personal, and entertainment activities separate for better focus.
2. Clipboard History
Windows 10 has a built-in clipboard history feature that lets you access previously copied items.
- How to Enable:
- Go to Settings > System > Clipboard and turn on Clipboard History.
- Press Win + V to view your clipboard history and paste items.
Why It’s Useful: No more losing important text or links you copied earlier.
3. Hidden Start Menu Folders
Did you know there are hidden folders in the Start Menu that can help you manage startup programs and apps?
- How to Access:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type shell:startup to access the Startup folder (for programs that launch at startup).
- Type shell:appsfolder to see all installed apps.
Why It’s Useful: Easily manage startup programs and access all installed apps in one place.
4. God Mode
God Mode is a hidden folder that gives you access to all Windows settings in one place.
- How to Enable:
- Create a new folder on your desktop and rename it to:
GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C} - The folder will transform into a control panel with all settings.
- Create a new folder on your desktop and rename it to:
Why It’s Useful: Quickly access advanced settings without navigating through multiple menus.
5. Night Light Mode
Reduce eye strain by enabling Night Light, which reduces blue light from your screen.
- How to Enable:
- Go to Settings > System > Display > Night Light Settings.
- Turn on Night Light and adjust the schedule or intensity.
Why It’s Useful: Protects your eyes during late-night work or browsing.
6. Hidden Game Mode
Windows 10 has a built-in Game Mode that optimizes your system for gaming.
- How to Enable:
- Go to Settings > Gaming > Game Mode and turn it on.
Why It’s Useful: Improves gaming performance by prioritizing system resources for games.
7. Quick Access to Emojis and Symbols
Windows 10 has a hidden emoji and symbol picker for quick access.
- How to Use:
- Press Win + . (period) or Win + ; (semicolon) to open the emoji panel.
Why It’s Useful: Easily insert emojis, symbols, and special characters in any text field.
8. Secret Start Menu Shortcuts
Right-clicking the Start Menu reveals a list of hidden shortcuts.
- How to Use:
- Right-click the Start Menu to see options like Device Manager, Power Options, Event Viewer, and more.
Why It’s Useful: Quick access to advanced tools and settings.
9. Shake to Minimize (Aero Shake)
Minimize all open windows except the one you’re working on with a simple mouse gesture.
- How to Use:
- Click and hold the title bar of a window, then shake it. All other windows will minimize.
Why It’s Useful: Quickly declutter your desktop and focus on one task.
10. Hidden Sandbox Mode
Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise users can use Sandbox Mode to test apps in an isolated environment.
- How to Enable:
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows Features On or Off.
- Check Windows Sandbox and click OK.
- Search for Windows Sandbox in the Start Menu to launch it.
Why It’s Useful: Safely test software without risking your main system.
Bonus Tip: Secret Screen Recording
Windows 10 has a built-in screen recorder for capturing gameplay or tutorials.
- How to Use:
- Press Win + G to open the Game Bar.
- Click the record button to start recording your screen.
Why It’s Useful: No need for third-party software to record your screen.
Conclusion
Windows 10 is full of hidden features and tricks that can make your life easier and more productive. From virtual desktops to God Mode, these tools are designed to help you get the most out of your operating system. Try out these tricks today and unlock the full potential of Windows 10!
If you found this article helpful, share it with your friends and family so they can discover these hidden gems too.