How to Create and Manage Virtual Desktops in Windows 11

Step by step

1. 10 sec

   Open the Task View interface

   Hover your mouse cursor over the Task View icon located on your taskbar, usually positioned next to the Search icon. Alternatively, press the Windows key + Tab to trigger the view instantly.

   Note: Win + Tab
2. 20 sec

   Add a new virtual desktop

   Inside the Task View pane at the bottom of the screen, select the button labeled 'New desktop'. This creates an additional workspace labeled 'Desktop 2' alongside your primary environment.

   Note: Repeat this step to create as many workspaces as your workflow requires.
3. 1 min

   Move applications between desktops

   Enter Task View and hover over the window you wish to move. Right-click the thumbnail, select 'Move to', and choose your target desktop from the list.

   Note: You can also drag and drop thumbnails directly into the target desktop bar at the bottom.
4. 30 sec

   Switch between active desktops

   Use keyboard commands to cycle through your open desktops without opening the Task View menu. Press Windows + Ctrl + Left or Right arrow to jump instantly to the adjacent workspace.

   Note: Win + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow
5. 45 sec

   Rename your virtual desktops

   Open Task View and click directly on the text label of your desktop, such as 'Desktop 1'. Type a custom name to categorize your workspaces by project, such as 'Work', 'Gaming', or 'Research'.

   Note: Renaming desktops helps maintain focus during high-intensity tasks.
6. 20 sec

   Close a virtual desktop

   Access the Task View interface. Hover your mouse over the desktop you wish to remove and click the 'X' button that appears in the top-right corner of the thumbnail.

   Note: Closing a desktop automatically moves all open windows within it to the desktop on the left.