7 Everyday Windows Tricks Every UK User Should Know

The following basic strategies help users save time and reduce hassle when working from home, managing a small business, or using their computers. This guide demonstrates practical Windows features that help users complete daily operations with increased speed and reduced complexity through straightforward instructions.

1. How to Take a Screenshot on Windows

Taking a screenshot of your screen requires immediate action. Windows provides multiple basic methods to capture screenshots of online orders, error messages, and social media content.

When you press the Print Screen (PrtScn) key, your entire screen image becomes copied to the clipboard. Users can insert the captured screenshot into Word, Paint, or an email by pressing the Ctrl + V keys.

The Snip & Sketch tool becomes available through the Windows + Shift + S key combination for users who need more screenshot control. Select any part of your screen by clicking and dragging the tool to capture that specific area. After selecting the screenshot area, you can copy it to your clipboard for easy pasting.

The combination of Windows + PrtScn saves the screenshot automatically to the Pictures > Screenshots folder. When you press this combination, the system will record a complete screen image which will be saved accordingly.

Using the key combination Alt + PrtScn enables you to capture only the active window instead of the entire desktop. The tool provides users with a convenient method to snap single applications without showing the surrounding desktop environment.

2. Open Apps Quickly Using the Start Menu

To find an application quickly, press the Windows key and begin typing its name. Open Word by typing “Word” into the search field followed by the Enter key. You can use this method to find system settings, PC files, and applications.

3. Snap Windows Side-by-Side for Better Multitasking

The ability to split windows horizontally enables users to maintain their work organisation while multitasking. Click on the desired window before using Windows + Left Arrow or Windows + Right Arrow to move it to either side of your screen. Select another available window to complete the other half of the display.

The square at the top right corner of Windows 11 windows allows you to hover for additional layout choices that split the screen into quarters or thirds.

4. Block Pop-Ups with Focus Assist

The Focus Assist feature enables users to block pop-up interruptions during work hours and important meetings. Navigate to Settings > System > Focus Assist to enable either “Priority only,” which lets specific apps through, or “Alarms only,” which blocks all notifications except alarm messages.

You can also automate Focus Assist to activate at specific times through scheduling, such as during work hours or at night.

5. Use Keyboard Shortcuts to Get Things Done Faster

The application of keyboard shortcuts provides users with a fast method to accomplish daily work:

• To switch between active applications, press Alt + Tab.
• Use Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V for copy and paste operations.
• Press Windows + D to instantly minimise all open windows and view your desktop.
• Access Task Manager directly by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

These shortcuts help users save time while minimising their need for mouse clicks.

6. Search and Find Files Faster in File Explorer

You can access File Explorer by pressing Windows + E, then search for files using the bar in the top right corner.

• Type *.pdf to find all your PDF documents.
• Use date: this week to retrieve files from the current week.
• Search by file type using terms such as kind:music or kind:pictures.

Simple search filters help users find what they need quickly without navigating multiple folders.

7. Automatically Back Up Your Files with OneDrive

All users who have Outlook or Hotmail accounts already have access to OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud storage service.

To back up important folders like Documents or Pictures, right-click the folder and choose either “Always keep on this device” to sync, or “Free up space” to store it online only.

OneDrive’s automatic file synchronisation ensures your data remains safe and accessible, even if something happens to your computer.

Everyday Technology Should Operate as a Straightforward System

The staff at BM Technologies stands behind the idea that technology should serve as a tool for human beings. The basic Windows tips we present will enhance your digital productivity and user experience—whether you’re based in Manchester, Glasgow, or the Welsh countryside.

Mark this guide for future reference by bookmarking it, and pass it along to people who may find it useful. Contact our team for assistance if you need help with setup tasks. We’re always here to help.