How to Switch Desktops

This guide takes you through the process of which you can switch desktops on Windows and Mac. We also include some tips to increase your productivity.

In this age of digital everything we do, multitasking is a must. From students to professionals, and also to that which is about being well organized, what you know of how to split out your desktops is a game-changer for your productivity. Windows and Mac OS both present to their users a feature called virtual desktop, which you can use to create different workspaces. Rather than having a single screen full of many windows, you are able to organize your tasks and switch between desktops as you see fit.

Why Switch Desktops?

Before you begin the process of learning the steps, it is important to note that there are a few core reasons that people use this feature to switch desktops. Thus, here goes:.

Better organization: Puts work apps, browsing, and entertainment into separate desktops.
Reduce distractions: which in turn will improve your focus on specific tasks.
Faster multitasking: Instead of minimizing and maximizing windows repeatedly, you can instantly switch desktops.
Enhanced productivity: By changing between desktops, you can better organize your flow.

In whatever you do — code, design, study, or just surf the net outdo it by learning to switch desktops.

How to Switch Desktops on Windows

Windows provides an easy way to switch desktops through just a few clicks or key commands.

Method 1: Using the Task View

Press Ctrl Windows Tab. T
This will open Task View, which in turn displays all your current desktops.
Choose the desktop you would like to move to and click it.
Instantly, you will switch desktops.

Method 2: Using Key Combinations of the Keyboard

Press Win Ctrl Left Arrow to go to the desktop on the left.
Hold down Windows and the Right Arrow keys at the same time to go to the secondary desktop.
This is the speediest way to switch between desktops.

Method 3: Using Finger Gestures (Laptops)

On your touchpad, tap four fingers and swipe left or right.
This feature allows you to switch between desktops smoothly without the keyboard.

How to Change Desktops on MacOS

Mac users are also able to take advantage of the feature which is which which creates multiple desktops we call “Spaces”. Here’s how to switch between desktops on a Mac:.

Method 1: Through Mission Control

Swipe up with three or four fingers on the trackpad to open Mission Control.
On your screen, you will see the desktops (Spaces) you have created.
Click on the desktop you wish to go to, and you will instantly transition.

Method 2: Using Key Combinations

Press Ctrl Right Arrow to go to the right desktop.
Press Ctrl Left Arrow to get to the other desktop.
On mac/OS, keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to switch desktops.

Method 3: Using Trackpad Taps

Place your thumb and two or three fingers on the trackpad.
Swipe in which way you would like to easily change desktops.

Tips for Managing Multiple Desktops

Learning which applications to put on which desktop is the other half of the task, which in turn will see you get the most out of this feature. Create separate workspaces, for example, one for work, one for entertainment, and one for personal browsing. Use keyboard shortcuts. The more you practice, the faster you will switch between desktops. Close out unused desktops; don’t create too many, or it may become confusing. Pin your most used apps. Put in favorite applications like browsers and communication tools at the top for easy access when you switch desktops.

Common Issues While Switching Desktops

At times, users experience problems while switching between desktops. Here are some solutions:.

If quick fixes do not work, check your system settings to see that virtual desktops are enabled.
Reboot your computer if desktops are not loading properly.
Keep your operating system up to date for seamless desktop switching.

Conclusion

The desktop switching feature is a great productivity asset, which in some cases will transform the way you use your computer. In Windows and Mac, there are many options for easy transition between desks, from Task View and Mission Control to shortcuts or gestures. Through the practice of these methods and smart task organization, you will see that which desktops you use for what purposes makes multitasking a simpler task, reduces clutter, and increases efficiency.

When next you feel that you are drowning in a sea of windows at your desk, don’t worry, you don’t have to. Just create a new workspace and switch between them with ease.

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How to Switch Desktops – Windows/MacOS Top 3 Methods