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How to Fast-Switch to Your Windows Desktop

Use Windows key shortcuts to become a power user

By Paul Gil Paul Gil Writer Paul Gil, a former Lifewire writer who is also known for his dynamic internet and database courses and has been active in technology fields for over two decades. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on December 31, 2020 Reviewed by Chris Selph Reviewed by Chris Selph Chris Selph is a CompTIA-certified technology and vocational IT teacher. He also serves as network & server administrator and performs computer maintenance and repair for numerous clients. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Windows The Ultimate Laptop Buying Guide

What to Know

Easiest: Use the Win+D shortcut to display and hide the desktop.Alternatively, enable the Task View button to display thumbnails of windows and virtual desktops.Also easy: Right-click the taskbar and select Show Desktop. This article explains several ways to quickly access the desktop in Windows 10 and how to create virtual desktops. Miguel Co / Lifewire

How to Display and Hide the Windows 10 Desktop

Use the Win+D shortcut to display and hide the desktop. This command forces Windows to switch to the desktop immediately and minimize all open windows to the taskbar. Use the same shortcut to bring back those open windows. Quickly Close Open Windows Using Shortcut Keys This shortcut works on all versions of Windows back to at least XP.

How to Create Virtual Desktops

Windows 10 includes virtual desktops, which offer more than one version of your workspace. One good use of virtual desktops is to separate professional and personal work. Press Win+Ctrl+D to add a new virtual desktop. Repeat the button command to create more. Press the Win+Ctrl keys plus the left and right arrow keys to switch between screens.

How to Display the Task View to See All Virtual Desktops

Press the Task View button on the toolbar to open a full-screen overlay that displays thumbnails of each virtual desktop and apps that support timeline history. This feature was new in the Windows 10 18.09 release. If you don't see the Task View button, right-click the taskbar and select Show Task View button. The Task View button looks like a filmstrip next to the Cortana icon on the taskbar by default. In Task View, you can find apps and web pages you previously browsed. You can also delete, move items to, and add new virtual desktops. How to Minimize Your Screen in Windows 10 Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Use Quick Settings in Windows 11 Switch Command Prompt and PowerShell on the Win+X Menu How to Use Linux Style Virtual Workspaces in Windows 10 How to Remove the Recycle Bin From a Windows Desktop How to Move a Window That Is Off-Screen How to Disable Taskbar Button Grouping in Windows The Best Windows Keyboard Shortcuts in 2022 How to Fix It When the Cursor Disappears in Windows 10 How to Use Multiple Desktops in Windows 10 How to Use Skype's Split View Mode in Windows 10 What Version of Windows Do I Have? Windows 10: Release Date, Editions, Features, and More How to Open File Explorer in Windows 11 How to Make Screencasts With Windows 10 Xbox Game DVR How to Minimize Your Screen in Windows 10 Move Between Open Windows With Alt + Tab Switching Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies