How to Arrange Windows in a Specific Order on Windows 11

Have you ever found yourself juggling multiple open windows and wishing you could arrange them in a neat, specific order? Maybe you’re working on a project that requires several apps open side-by-side or trying to multitask effectively without losing track of anything. Windows 11 makes managing your workspace easier with features like Snap Layouts, virtual desktops, and advanced keyboard shortcuts.

These tools let you arrange your windows in the exact order you need for maximum productivity. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to arrange windows on Windows 11 in ways that make sense for your workflow.

Why Organizing Windows Matters

Organizing your windows isn’t just about making things look tidy—it’s about boosting your efficiency. When your workspace is well-arranged, switching between tasks becomes faster and less stressful.

You won’t waste time hunting for the right app or resizing windows manually. Windows 11 has several built-in features that allow you to arrange windows in specific layouts, whether you’re using one screen or multiple monitors.

Using Snap Layouts to Arrange Windows

Snap Layouts are one of the most powerful features in Windows 11. They let you quickly organize your open windows into preset layouts, making multitasking a breeze.

Steps to Use Snap Layouts:

1. Hover Over the Maximize Button
   Move your mouse over the maximize button on any open window. You’ll see a grid of layout options pop up.

2. Choose a Layout
   Click on the part of the grid where you want your current window to go. For example, you can place it in a left or right column, or one of four quadrants.

3. Snap Other Windows
   After choosing a spot, Windows will suggest other open apps to fill the remaining spaces. Select the ones you want, and they’ll snap into place.

Customizing Snap Settings:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.

• Go to System > Multitasking and toggle Snap Windows on.

• You can customize snap options, like showing snap layouts when you drag a window to the edge of your screen.

Snap Layouts are perfect for arranging your workspace without manually resizing windows. Whether you’re editing a document while referencing a webpage or monitoring several apps simultaneously, this feature saves time.

Rearrange Windows Using Virtual Desktops

If your screen feels cluttered with too many open windows, virtual desktops can help you separate tasks into organized spaces.

How to Use Virtual Desktops:

1. Open Task View
   Press Windows + Tab to open the Task View. You’ll see all your open apps and desktops at the bottom of the screen.

2. Create a New Desktop
   Click the + New Desktop button. A new, empty desktop will appear.

3. Move Windows Between Desktops
   Drag and drop windows from one desktop to another. This lets you arrange windows by task or project.

4. Switch Between Desktops
   Use Ctrl + Windows + Left/Right Arrow to move between desktops quickly.

Why Use Virtual Desktops?

They’re ideal for keeping personal and work tasks separate or dedicating one desktop to entertainment and another to productivity. You can also rename desktops to make them easier to manage.

Mastering Keyboard Shortcuts for Faster Arrangement

Keyboard shortcuts are a lifesaver if you want to arrange windows in a specific order quickly. Here are some of the most useful ones for Windows 11:

Essential Keyboard Shortcuts:

Using Shortcuts Effectively:

Combine these shortcuts to arrange windows exactly how you want them. For example, snap one app to the left and another to the right for side-by-side multitasking.

Arranging Windows Across Multiple Monitors

If you’re using more than one monitor, Windows 11 makes it easy to arrange windows across all your screens.

Tips for Multi-Monitor Setups:

1. Open Display Settings
   Right-click your desktop and select Display Settings. Ensure your monitors are set to “Extend” mode.

2. Drag and Drop Windows
   Simply drag windows between monitors to place them in your desired order.

3. Use Snap Layouts Across Screens
   Snap Layouts work across multiple monitors. You can snap windows on one screen and arrange others independently on a second screen.

4. Set Primary Monitor
   In Display Settings, set your primary monitor where most of your work will happen. This helps keep everything organized.

Why It’s Useful:

Multi-monitor setups are perfect for professionals, gamers, and creatives who need lots of screen real estate. With the right arrangement, you can have email on one monitor, a project on another, and tools or media on a third.

Using Third-Party Tools for Advanced Arrangements

If Windows 11’s built-in tools aren’t enough, third-party apps can give you even more control over window arrangements.

Recommended Tools:

1. FancyZones (Part of Microsoft PowerToys)

   • Download Microsoft PowerToys.

   • FancyZones lets you create custom window layouts and snap windows into them effortlessly.

2. DisplayFusion

   • A paid tool that offers advanced window management, especially for multi-monitor setups.

   • Features include custom snapping, monitor-specific taskbars, and more.

3. AquaSnap

   • A lightweight app for snapping windows, tiling layouts, and resizing groups of windows together.

Third-party tools are worth exploring if you need highly specific layouts or advanced customization.

Conclusion

Arranging windows in a specific order on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you’re using Snap Layouts, virtual desktops, or keyboard shortcuts, there’s a method for everyone. For those with more complex needs, multi-monitor setups and third-party tools provide even greater flexibility.

By mastering these features, you can create a workspace that boosts your productivity and keeps everything you need within easy reach.

FAQs

How do I use Snap Layouts in Windows 11?

Hover your mouse over the maximize button on any window to see Snap Layout options. Click on your desired layout, and Windows will guide you to arrange other windows.

Can I customize Snap Layouts?

Yes, go to Settings > System > Multitasking to adjust snap options, like showing layouts when dragging windows to the screen edge.

How do I move windows between virtual desktops?

Press Windows + Tab to open Task View, then drag and drop windows to the desired desktop.

Can I save my window arrangement for future use?

Windows 11 doesn’t natively support saving layouts, but tools like FancyZones in Microsoft PowerToys allow you to create reusable layouts.

What is the best tool for arranging windows on multiple monitors?

FancyZones is free and highly customizable, making it ideal for multi-monitor setups. For advanced features, consider DisplayFusion.