Windows general keyboard shortcuts

Is using dual monitors with your Windows computer worth it? If you spend a lot of time working on your computer, whether for work or leisure, you've probably considered adding a second monitor to your setup. Dual monitors allow you to multitask more efficiently, increase productivity, and enhance your overall computing experience. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of using dual monitors with your Windows computer.

First and foremost, dual monitors provide more screen real estate, which means you can have multiple applications and windows open simultaneously without cluttering a single screen. This is especially useful for professionals like graphic designers, video editors, programmers, and day traders who rely on having multiple windows open for their work. With dual monitors, you can have your main work window open on one screen and secondary windows, such as reference materials or communication applications, open on the other, leading to improved workflow and efficiency.

Another significant advantage of using dual monitors is the ability to compare information side-by-side. For example, you can have a spreadsheet open on one screen while referencing data from a web browser on the other screen. This is immensely helpful for tasks that involve cross-referencing information, and it can save you a lot of time compared to constantly switching between application windows on a single monitor.

Multitasking becomes a breeze with dual monitors. You can write an email on one screen while researching information on the other or watch a tutorial video while following along with the steps on your main screen. It's like having two separate computers in front of you, and it can significantly boost your productivity, whether you're working on projects, studying, or simply organizing your digital life.

Now, let's explore the practical aspect of setting up dual monitors on your Windows computer. Most modern Windows PCs support dual monitors, and the process of setting them up is straightforward. First, check the ports available on your computer and the monitors you want to use. Common connections include HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA. Once you've identified the available ports, you will need to use an appropriate cable or adapter to connect your additional monitor.

After physically connecting the monitors, you can customize their display settings by right-clicking on your Desktop and selecting Display settings. In this menu, you can arrange the position of the monitors, choose which one is the main display, and adjust the scaling and resolution to ensure a seamless visual experience across both screens. Windows also offers various options for dual monitors, such as extending your Desktop, duplicating the display, or using one monitor as the main display and the other as a secondary display. Experiment with these settings to find the configuration that best suits your workflow.

Extending your Desktop: This is a side-by-side scenario, horizontally or vertically, with the desktop expanded across both monitors. The first thing to consider is having two monitors precisely alike. It’s not necessary, but it is recommended.  With this setup, you can work with a different program on each monitor, which makes copying and pasting a breeze. You can also stretch a program across both monitors (the left monitor has a work area; the right monitor has the tool palette).

Duplicating your Desktop: Then there is what I like to call the back-to-back scenario, with the monitors on opposing faces of a wall or walls. The keyboard and mouse can be used wirelessly or through a USB cable. You can run multiple keyboards and mice on a system if this helps. In this case, cloning the display across both monitors is required, as the user can only view one monitor simultaneously.

Main and Secondary Displays - In this scenario, you can have a presentation monitor (LCD TV works well) on one wall and a standard monitor at the workstation. Without the need for matching monitors, you could pick up a cheap used one to run as a secondary. If your going to use an HDMI connection for a second monitor, you might also want to consider a TV with an HDMI port. Try your local Goodwill, Savers, thrift shop, etc.

This scenario also works well for those with visual impairments that require a magnification utility. You can use a larger monitor as the ‘main’ display and a smaller monitor as the ‘secondary’ display. Using the main display for all standard functions, the secondary display shows a magnified view of the main display.

In conclusion, the benefits of using dual monitors with your Windows computer are undeniable. Whether you're a professional looking to streamline your workflow or a multitasking enthusiast seeking a more productive computing experience, dual monitors can make a substantial difference in how you use your computer. By taking advantage of the additional screen real estate, enhanced multitasking capabilities, and improved productivity, you can elevate your computing experience to new heights. So, if you haven't already considered using dual monitors, now might be the perfect time to give it a try and unlock your full potential.

When working with other people, I am quite often asked, “How did you do that?” (when I bring up Windows Explorer or the ‘Run’ dialog box with just a one combined keystroke). A few little known keyboard shortcuts are the secret.

You can use the following keyboard shortcuts with a Microsoft Natural Keyboard or any other compatible keyboard that includes the Windows logo key () and the Application key ().

Press	To
	Display or hide the Start menu.
+ BREAK	Display the System Properties dialog box.
+ D	Show the desktop.
+ M	Minimize all windows.
+ Shift + M	Restores minimized windows.
+ E	Open My Computer.
+ F	Search for a file or folder.
+ CTRL + F	Search for computers.
+ F1	Display Windows Help.
+ L	Lock your computer if you are connected to a network domain, or switch users if you are not connected to a network domain.
+ R	Open the Run dialog box.
	Display the shortcut menu for the selected item.
+ U	Open Utility Manager.