Windows is full of powerful features, and many users are unaware of some truly game-changing tools. In this guide, we’ll explore five underrated Windows features and how to use them effectively, along with a bonus tip to improve your system performance.
1. Snipping Tool: A New Era of Screenshots
The Snipping Tool has long been a part of Windows, but recent updates have elevated its capabilities to new heights. Here’s how to take full advantage of it:
- Accessing the Snipping Tool:
Open the search bar on your taskbar and type “Snipping Tool.” Click on the top result to open the app. - Taking a Screenshot:
Once the app launches, click the New button. Select the area you want to capture, and the screenshot will appear in the tool’s window. - Extracting Text with OCR:
Use the Text Actions feature to extract text from your screenshot. Highlight the desired text, click on the icon, and copy it to your clipboard. This feature utilizes Optical Character Recognition (OCR). - Enable the Print Screen Shortcut:
Go to the tool’s settings (three dots in the top-right corner) and enable the option to use the Print Screen key to launch the Snipping Tool. - Screen Recording with Snipping Tool:
Press Windows + Shift + R to record your screen. Adjust settings like microphone and system audio recording, and click Start to begin.
2. Notepad: More Than Just a Simple Text Editor
Notepad has evolved significantly, incorporating modern features and AI tools:
- Dark Mode & Zoom:
Switch to Dark Mode for a comfortable viewing experience. Zoom in or out by pressing Ctrl and scrolling your mouse wheel. - Auto-Save:
Notepad now saves your text automatically. Close and reopen it, and your work will still be there. - AI Rewrite Tool:
The Rewrite button in the top-right corner allows you to reformat, shorten, or expand your text and adjust its tone.
3. Microsoft Paint: AI-Powered Creativity
Microsoft Paint has embraced AI to enhance its usability:
- Co-Creator:
Sketch your idea, describe it, and AI will refine and enhance your drawing. - Image Creator:
Use AI to generate an image by simply describing it. This tool leverages DALL·E 3 technology. - New Features:
- Background Removal: Drag an image into Paint, select the background removal option, and watch the magic happen.
- Layers: Add layers to your project, rearrange them, and create detailed compositions.
4. Clipboard History: A Time-Saving Tool
Clipboard History allows you to manage and paste multiple copied items efficiently:
- Enable Clipboard History:
Press Windows + V to open the clipboard history. Copy text, images, or links, and switch between them for pasting.
5. Microsoft Edge: Lightweight PDF Editing
Microsoft Edge includes built-in tools for PDF annotation:
- Highlight Text: Use the highlighter tool for emphasizing content.
- Add Text: Fill out forms or annotate PDFs with ease.
- Draw or Sign: Use the drawing tool to add signatures or notes.
- Save Your Edits: Once done, save the edited PDF.
Bonus Tip: Speed Up Your Startup
Too many startup apps can slow down your PC. Here’s how to fix that:
- Manage Startup Apps:
Search for Startup Apps in the taskbar. Disable apps you don’t need by toggling them off.
By doing this, your computer will boot faster, allowing you to dive into tasks sooner.
Conclusion
Windows is filled with incredible tools that can transform the way you work. From the updated Snipping Tool to the AI features in Paint, these hidden gems are waiting to be explored. Try them out and streamline your workflow today!
Tags
windows features, hidden windows tools, snipping tool tutorial, notepad new features, Microsoft paint AI features, clipboard history, microsoft edge pdf editing, speed up windows startup, improve PC performance
Hashtags
#windows #snippingtool #notepad #microsoftpaint #clipboardhistory #microsoftedge #windowsfeatures #pcperformance #productivitytips
