1. Clipboard History: Never Lose a Copied Item Again
Have you ever accidentally overwritten something you copied and wished you could get it back? With clipboard history, you can. Both Windows and macOS have this handy feature built-in:
- Windows: Press Windows + V to access a list of items you’ve copied recently. You can pin frequently used items for easy access.
- macOS: You can use third-party apps like CopyClip or Paste to store multiple copied items and access them anytime.
Clipboard history ensures you never lose important information and can easily retrieve past entries.(Master Your Machine)
2. Snipping Tool and Built-In Screenshots: Capture More than Just Your Screen
You likely know how to take a screenshot, but did you know your operating system offers more advanced tools for capturing exactly what you need?
- Windows Snipping Tool: Press Windows + Shift + S to access a versatile snipping tool that lets you capture a specific region, window, or the entire screen. You can annotate your screenshots before saving them.
- macOS Screenshot Tool: Press Command + Shift + 4 for more control, allowing you to select specific areas, windows, or capture the whole screen.
These built-in tools are a step up from the traditional screenshot function and offer more precision and flexibility.
3. God Mode in Windows: All Settings in One Place
If you’re someone who likes to tweak settings and take control of your PC, Windows has a hidden “God Mode” feature that grants access to virtually every setting in one easy-to-navigate folder.
- To enable it, create a new folder and name it:
GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}. - The folder icon will change, and when you open it, you’ll see a comprehensive list of settings options.
This feature is perfect for users who want quick access to every configuration option available on their PC.(Master Your Machine)
4. Spotlight Search on macOS: More Than Just a Search Bar
Spotlight on macOS is often used to find files, but it can do so much more. It’s also a calculator, unit converter, and dictionary, all in one.
- Press Command + Spacebar to bring up Spotlight, then type anything from calculations (e.g., “45*12”) to unit conversions (e.g., “100 USD in EUR”) or even definitions.
Using Spotlight as a multifunctional tool saves time and reduces the need to open additional apps.
5. Shake to Minimize (Windows): Clear Your Screen in One Move
If your desktop is cluttered with too many open windows and you want to focus on just one, this hidden feature is for you:
- Click and hold the title bar of the window you want to keep open, then shake your mouse quickly. All other windows will minimize. Shake again to bring them back.
This simple gesture lets you instantly declutter your screen and stay focused.(Master Your Machine)
6. Hot Corners on macOS: Quick Access to Key Functions
Hot Corners turn the corners of your screen into action triggers, allowing you to quickly perform functions like showing the desktop, launching Mission Control, or putting the screen to sleep.
- Go to System Preferences > Desktop & Screen Saver > Hot Corners to assign actions to each corner.
Hot Corners are a quick and intuitive way to access frequently used functions without lifting a finger from your trackpad or mouse.
7. Virtual Desktops: Organize Your Workspaces
Virtual desktops are a game-changer for anyone juggling multiple tasks. They allow you to create separate desktops for different activities, reducing clutter and distractions.
- Windows: Press Windows + Tab to access Task View, where you can create and switch between virtual desktops.
- macOS: Use Mission Control (F3) or swipe up with three fingers to create and manage multiple workspaces.
Virtual desktops help you keep related tasks together and switch focus seamlessly between different projects.(Master Your Machine)
8. Run Dialog Commands (Windows): Quick Access to System Tools
The Run dialog in Windows is a powerful tool for quickly launching apps and accessing system functions.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, then type commands like:
msconfig: Open system configuration settings.appwiz.cpl: Open the Programs and Features menu to manage installed software.shell:startup: Access the startup folder to manage which programs launch when your PC starts.
These commands offer direct access to important settings, cutting down the time spent navigating through menus.
9. Drag and Drop to Taskbar Apps (Windows): Faster File Management
You can quickly open files in taskbar apps by dragging and dropping them:
- Drag a file onto an app in the taskbar, hover until the app opens, then drop the file inside the window.
This feature makes file management faster, especially when working with multiple files and programs simultaneously.(Master Your Machine)
10. Emoji Picker (Windows and macOS): Add Some Fun to Your Work
You don’t need to limit emoji use to your smartphone—your computer has it too:
- Windows: Press Windows + . (period) to bring up the emoji panel.
- macOS: Press Command + Control + Space to open the emoji picker.
Whether you’re writing emails, chatting with friends, or posting on social media, these hidden emoji pickers let you add a personal touch to your messages.(Master Your Machine)
Conclusion
Your computer has many hidden features that can enhance your experience, boost productivity, and make everyday tasks more enjoyable. By uncovering and mastering these hidden tools, you’ll not only improve your efficiency but also unlock the full potential of your machine. Happy exploring!