Virtual desktops are a useful feature in Windows 10 and 11 that allows you to create multiple separate desktops for different tasks, projects, or personal activities. This helps you stay organized, stay focused, and reduce clutter.
1. Create a virtual desktop
- Press Windows key + Tab or click the Task View icon on the taskbar.
- You’ll see your existing desktops at the top of your screen. Click “New desktop” to add a new virtual desktop.
- The new desktop will be created and you can switch to it immediately.
2. Switch between desktops
- Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Windows key + left/right arrow keys to switch between desktops.
- Or, open Task View and select the desired desktop with your mouse.
3. Manage apps and windows
- You can open different apps and windows on each virtual desktop.
- To move an application to another desktop:
- Open Task View (or Win + Tab).
- Drag the desired window to another desktop OR right-click the window and select “Move to” and select the target desktop.
4. Rename and close desktops
- Open Task View (or Win + Tab).
- Right-click the desktop name and select “Rename” to give it a meaningful name (e.g. “Work”, “Study”, “Leisure”).
- You can close a desktop by clicking the X on it.
5. Advanced settings and tips
- Windows 11 allows you to control whether all desktops share the same taskbar icons or not. To do this, go to Settings > System > Multitasking.