Hi! I’m Lauren from the b2b IT Services Service Desk. I spend a lot of time helping people stay productive and fix frustrating tech issues. But sometimes, the best solutions are already sitting in Windows – just waiting to be discovered.
Here are three of my favourite Windows 11 tips to help you stay focused, cut through the clutter, and work a little bit smarter.
1. 5 Keyboard Shortcuts You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
You probably know Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V – but these ones? Game-changers.
- Win + V – Open your clipboard history (copy multiple things without losing anything)
- Win + Shift + S – Instantly open the snipping tool to grab a screenshot of any part of your screen.
- Win + D – Show your desktop instantly (press it again to bring windows back).
- Win + Arrow keys – Snap windows to the left, right, or corners of the screen.
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc – Open the Task Manager directly (no more Ctrl + Alt + Del dance).
Little things that save time – and your sanity.
2. Shake to Minimise – Weirdly Satisfying!
Ever feel overwhelmed with too many windows open? Try this:
Click and hold the title bar of the window you want to keep… then give it a shake. Everything else will minimise instantly. Shake it again to bring them back.
It’s like tidying your desk with one flick of the wrist. Weirdly satisfying. And yes – it still works in Windows 11.
3. Focus Sessions – The Hidden Productivity Hero
Did you know Windows 11 has a built-in focus timer? It’s in the Clock app. Or click on the Windows icon and type “focus” into the bar.
Open it up, and you’ll find a distraction-free mode that:
- Lets you set a focus session (25 minutes? 45? Up to you).
- Disables notifications while you work.
- Even links with Spotify, if you want a bit of background music.
For anyone who gets distracted easily (guilty!), it’s a great way to stay in the zone and actually finish that thing you started.
Got a Tip to Share?
We’re always on the lookout for handy tips – whether it’s a clever shortcut or a question we can help with. Feel free to email the Service Desk or drop us a message. And if you’re stuck or curious about Windows 11 features, we’re here to help.
Until next time,
Lauren @ b2b IT Services Service Desk
