The advent of Windows 8.1 marks significant improvements over its predecessor, Windows 8. Upgrading to Windows 8.1 isn't overly challenging, but for those accustomed to Windows 8, navigating 8.1 can be a bit daunting. In today's article, Mytour presents tips for maximizing your efficiency with Windows 8.1.
Compilation of Effective Tips for Using Windows 8.1
Tip 1: Directly Access the Desktop
Windows 8.1 comes with an upgrade allowing users to access the desktop directly. However, this feature is usually disabled by default and needs to be manually activated. Once activated, your Windows startup will lead straight to the desktop, similar to previous Windows versions.
First, right-click on the Taskbar and select Properties. Next, navigate to the Navigation tab.
Under Start Screen, check 'When I sign in or close all applications on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start'
Finally, click OK to complete the process.
Tip 2: Running Modern Apps within Desktop
If you're using Windows 8 or 8.1, you'll notice two types of applications: those in traditional windowed interfaces and those in Modern UI. Typically, these two types run independently in separate environments, complicating multitasking. This issue is resolved with the help of ModernMix. With ModernMix, Modern apps can also exist as windows, seamlessly integrating with traditional applications.
Tip 3: Customize the Start screen
For those who want their own style, you can customize the Start Screen. Simply right-click on any Live Tile, select the 'Resize' icon at the bottom of the screen, and arrange according to your preference.
Tip 4: Restore Library Folders
Unlike its predecessors, Windows 8.1 decides to hide our Library folders such as Music, Video, Pictures, and Documents from the navigation pane. To display these folders again, navigate to This PC, select the menu View -> Navigation pane -> Show libraries.
Tip 5: Set SkyDrive as Default File Storage
Microsoft has placed considerable emphasis on integrating the cloud storage service SkyDrive in Windows 8.1. In the Charm toolbar, select Settings -> Change PC settings -> SkyDrive -> then click On under Save documents to SkyDrive by default. This way, your files will be saved automatically to SkyDrive without manual navigation.
Tip 6: New Calculator Spreadsheet
Windows 8.1 introduces handy built-in desktop apps within the Modern interface. You can perform simple arithmetic operations, switch to scientific mode for advanced calculations like sin, cos, tan... Additionally, this app also supports unit conversions for weight, length, volume, temperature, energy, area... making it convenient without needing internet access. Calculator is an app activated by accessing the Start Screen in Windows 8.1.
Here are some new features and efficient usage methods. While these features may not be extensive, they can be quite helpful for those new to using the Windows 8.1 operating system.
