windows 11 how to show all windows in taskbar

2 min read 06-09-2024

windows 11 how to show all windows in taskbar

Windows 11 introduces a sleek interface and a range of functionalities, but some users may find themselves wondering how to manage their open windows effectively. One common question is: How can I show all windows in the taskbar? In this guide, we will explore the steps you can take to display all open windows on your taskbar for easy access.

Understanding the Taskbar in Windows 11

The taskbar in Windows 11 is like a command center. It holds all your active applications, allowing you to switch between them swiftly, similar to flipping through the pages of a book. By showing all windows in the taskbar, you can improve your workflow and keep everything organized.

Why You Might Want to See All Windows

Improved Multitasking: Quickly switch between applications without needing to minimize or close others.
Better Organization: Easily find the app you need without clutter.
Enhanced Productivity: Save time and effort by accessing apps quickly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Show All Windows in Taskbar

Here’s how to show all your open windows in the taskbar in Windows 11:

Step 1: Access Settings

Click on the Start Menu: You can find this at the center of your taskbar (the Windows icon).
Select Settings: This is represented by a gear icon.

Step 2: Navigate to Taskbar Settings

In the Settings window, look for Personalization on the left sidebar.
Click on Taskbar from the Personalization options.

Step 3: Customize Taskbar Behavior

In the Taskbar settings, find the Taskbar behaviors section.
Here, you will see various options related to how your taskbar behaves.
Look for the option that says Combine taskbar buttons. By default, this may be set to combine buttons when the taskbar is full. Changing this to Never will display all windows separately.

Step 4: Check Taskbar Grouping

If you use multiple windows of the same application (like several Microsoft Word documents), you can decide whether to group them together:

If you want them to show as separate entities, ensure the option Combine taskbar buttons is set to Never.

Step 5: Exit Settings

After making the necessary changes, close the Settings window. You should now see all your open windows displayed individually in the taskbar.

Additional Tips for Managing Your Windows

Using Keyboard Shortcuts: You can press Alt + Tab to quickly switch between windows.
Using Task View: Click on the Task View icon (two overlapping rectangles) in the taskbar to view all open windows at once.
Virtual Desktops: Consider using multiple desktops for different projects or tasks to keep your workspace organized.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can easily show all windows in the taskbar on Windows 11, allowing for a more organized and efficient workspace. This small adjustment can make a big difference in your daily productivity.

Now that you know how to manage your taskbar effectively, you can enhance your Windows 11 experience. Happy multitasking!