You can resize an application window in Windows 10 using several methods, depending on the application and your desired result.
Here's a breakdown of the most common approaches:
1. Using the Mouse (Dragging):
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Standard Resizing: Hover your mouse cursor over any edge or corner of the application window. When the cursor changes to a double-headed arrow, click and drag to resize. This is the most intuitive method for making a window larger or smaller.
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Maximizing/Restoring: Double-clicking the title bar of a window will usually maximize it (fill the entire screen). Double-clicking again will restore it to its previous size.
2. Using the System Menu:
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Accessing the System Menu: Right-click on the application's icon in the taskbar while holding down the Shift key.
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Choosing Resize/Size: A context menu will appear (the "System Menu"). If the application is resizable, you'll see options like "Move," "Size," "Minimize," "Maximize," and "Close." Select "Size" to enter a resize mode controlled by your keyboard. Use the arrow keys to adjust the height and width. Press Enter when satisfied.
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Restore: If the window is maximized and you want to resize, select "Restore" first. This returns the window to a resizable state.
3. Using Keyboard Shortcuts:
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Alt + Spacebar: Pressing
Alt + Spacebaropens the system menu for the active window. From there, you can use the arrow keys to navigate to "Size" or other options, and then press Enter to select it. -
Windows Key + Arrow Keys: The Windows key combined with the arrow keys offers a quick way to resize and position windows:
Windows Key + Up Arrow: Maximizes the window.Windows Key + Down Arrow: Minimizes the window (if maximized, it will restore to its previous size first, then minimize).Windows Key + Left Arrow: Snaps the window to the left half of the screen.Windows Key + Right Arrow: Snaps the window to the right half of the screen.
4. Using Application Settings:
- Some applications have built-in settings that allow you to specify the window size or resolution. Look for options related to "Display," "Window," or "View" within the application's preferences or settings menu. This is common in games and media players.
Important Considerations:
- Not all applications are resizable. Some programs are designed with a fixed size and won't allow you to change their window dimensions.
- Application state. A window might be maximized, minimized, or in a "windowed" state. You often need to restore from maximized before you can resize.
- Multi-Monitor setups: Using the Windows key + arrow keys can also be used to move windows between monitors.
