To minimize all open windows on Windows 11 quickly, the most straightforward method is using a simple keyboard shortcut: press Windows key + M.
Managing multiple open windows can clutter your screen and make it difficult to focus on a specific task. Fortunately, Windows 11 provides several convenient keyboard shortcuts to help you organize your workspace efficiently, including instantly minimizing all active windows.
Instantly Minimize All Windows: Windows Key + M
The quickest way to clear your desktop and minimize every open window is by using the Windows key + M keyboard shortcut. Pressing these two keys simultaneously will send all currently open application windows to the taskbar, giving you immediate access to your desktop.
This shortcut is universally effective for minimizing applications, file explorer windows, and most other graphical interfaces running on your desktop.
Other Useful Window Management Shortcuts
The reference information highlights other related shortcuts that are invaluable for managing your windows on Windows 11. Understanding these shortcuts provides more control over how your windows are displayed and organized.
Here are some key shortcuts based on the provided reference:
| Shortcut Combination | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Windows key + M | Minimize all open windows | Sends all active windows to the taskbar. |
| Windows key + Shift + M | Restore minimized windows | Brings all windows that were minimized using Windows key + M back up. |
| Windows key + Home | Minimize all windows except the active one | Keeps only the currently focused window open and minimizes all others. |
| Windows key + Up arrow | Maximize the selected or active window | Enlarges the window that is currently in focus to fill the entire screen. |
Restoring Minimized Windows
If you used Windows key + M to minimize all windows, you can easily bring them back by pressing Windows key + Shift + M. This shortcut acts as an 'undo' for the minimize-all action, restoring the windows to their previous size and position.
Minimizing All Except the Active Window
Sometimes, you only want to minimize background windows to focus on the one you are currently using. The Windows key + Home shortcut is perfect for this. It minimizes every window except the one you are currently working in, leaving your primary task front and center while clearing visual clutter.
Maximizing a Window
While not for minimizing, the reference also mentions Windows key + Up arrow, which is useful for managing window size by maximizing the currently selected window.
Using these keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow on Windows 11, allowing you to manage your open applications and windows with greater efficiency and control.
These shortcuts are widely recognized methods for Windows 11 window management, as noted in resources like CNET's list of essential keyboard shortcuts.
