how to make full screen on windows

2 min read 05-09-2024

If you've ever found yourself squinting at a tiny window on your computer, you're not alone! Making an application or program full screen on Windows can significantly enhance your viewing experience. Whether you’re gaming, watching videos, or working on spreadsheets, the full-screen mode can provide an immersive experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to achieve full-screen mode in various applications and Windows settings.

What is Full Screen Mode?

Full screen mode is like opening a window to your favorite view. It expands the application to fill the entire screen, hiding everything else, such as the taskbar and title bars. This way, you can focus solely on what you’re doing without distractions.

How to Enter Full Screen Mode in Different Applications

1. Web Browsers (Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.)

Keyboard Shortcut: Press F11. This shortcut toggles the full-screen mode on and off.
Menu Method:
- Click on the three dots (menu) in the top right corner.
- Select Full screen from the dropdown menu.

2. Media Players (VLC, Windows Media Player, etc.)

Keyboard Shortcut: Press F11 or Alt + Enter.
Right-Click Method:
- Right-click on the video player.
- Select Full screen from the context menu.

3. Games

Most games have a built-in full-screen option in their settings:

Access the Options or Settings menu in the game.
Look for the Display or Video settings.
Toggle the Full Screen option.

Using Windows Built-In Features

1. Maximize Window

While this isn't full-screen in the traditional sense, it can be effective:

Mouse Method: Click the square icon at the top right corner of any window.
Keyboard Shortcut: Press Windows Key + Up Arrow to maximize the current window.

2. Taskbar Settings for a Cleaner Look

To minimize distractions while in full-screen mode:

Right-click the Taskbar.
Select Taskbar settings.
Toggle Automatically hide the taskbar in desktop mode to On.

Tips for a Better Full-Screen Experience

Adjust Display Settings: If your application looks odd in full screen, adjust your screen resolution by going to Settings > System > Display and choosing the best resolution.
Using Multiple Monitors: If you have multiple monitors, make sure the application opens on the monitor you want by dragging it over before maximizing.
Keyboard Shortcuts for Quick Access: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts for quick transitions between windowed and full-screen modes.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

If you find that full-screen mode isn’t working properly, consider these tips:

Update Drivers: Ensure that your graphics drivers are up to date.
Check for Application Updates: Sometimes, an update can fix bugs related to full-screen mode.
Restart the Application: Closing and reopening the application can sometimes resolve issues.

Conclusion

Knowing how to enter full screen mode on Windows is an essential skill for maximizing your computer experience. Whether for work or play, taking your application full screen can help you immerse yourself without distractions. Remember to experiment with different methods and settings to find what works best for you!