How do I open a virtual window?

To "open a virtual window," which is commonly referred to as creating a virtual desktop on Windows 10 and 11, you can quickly expand your workspace and organize your open applications. Virtual desktops allow you to group related tasks or projects, reducing clutter and enhancing focus.

Steps to Create a New Virtual Desktop

Creating a new virtual desktop is a straightforward process designed to help you manage your digital workspace efficiently.

1. Access Task View:
   There are two primary ways to open the Task View interface, which is your gateway to managing virtual desktops:

   Method	Action
   Taskbar Icon	Click the [Task View] icon, typically located on your taskbar.
   Keyboard Shortcut	Press the Windows logo key + Tab keys simultaneously on your keyboard.

2. Create a New Desktop:
   Once the Task View is open, you will see thumbnails of your current open windows and existing desktops along the bottom of the screen.

   • Select the [New desktop] option. This button is usually represented by a plus sign (+) or clearly labeled "New desktop" at the bottom right of the Task View screen.

   A new, blank virtual desktop will be created. You can then drag open applications from your current desktop to this new one, or open new applications directly on it.

Managing Your Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops are powerful for multitasking and organization. Here’s how you can use them effectively:

• Switching Desktops: In Task View, click on the thumbnail of the desktop you wish to switch to. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Windows logo key + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow to quickly navigate between desktops.
• Moving Windows Between Desktops:
  1. Open Task View.
  2. Drag and drop an application window from one desktop thumbnail to another.
  3. Alternatively, right-click on an application's thumbnail in Task View, then select "Move to" and choose an existing desktop or a "New desktop."
• Closing a Virtual Desktop: In Task View, hover over the thumbnail of the desktop you wish to close, and an 'X' icon will appear. Clicking the 'X' will close the desktop, and any open windows on it will automatically move to the desktop to its left.

Benefits of Using Virtual Desktops

Utilizing virtual desktops can significantly improve your workflow, especially if you handle multiple projects or roles.

• Enhanced Organization: Keep work-related applications on one desktop, personal browsing on another, and entertainment on a third.
• Reduced Clutter: Prevent your primary desktop from becoming overcrowded with open windows, making it easier to find what you need.
• Improved Focus: By dedicating desktops to specific tasks, you can minimize distractions and concentrate on one project at a time.
• Seamless Multitasking: Easily switch between different work environments without closing and reopening applications.

For more detailed information on managing virtual desktops on Windows, you can refer to official support resources here.