If you are new to computers or Windows, learning the basics is important. It may seem confusing at first, but don’t worry! This guide will help you step by step. You will learn how to use the desktop, open and close windows, and turn off your computer.

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The Desktop

When your computer starts, the first thing you see is the desktop. It is the main workspace. From here, you can open files, run applications, and browse the internet.


When you delete a file, it is moved to the Recycle Bin. This allows you to recover the file if you change your mind. To permanently delete the file, you will need to empty the Recycle Bin.


When you double-click a folder, it will open in a specialized program called File Explorer (also known as Windows Explorer). This allows you to navigate to the specific folder or file you want.


You can keep folders, files, and shortcuts on the desktop so they'll be easily accessible.


The desktop background, or wallpaper, allows you to personalize your computer. You can choose a built-in background or use one of your own images.


Some programs will have shortcuts on the taskbar for easy access. In this example, there are shortcuts to Internet Explorer, File Explorer, and Windows Media Player.


The taskbar contains shortcuts to applications, the date and time, and more. When you open a program or file, it will appear on the taskbar, and you can easily switch between different programs by selecting them on the taskbar.


On the right side of the taskbar, you will see the date and time. There will also be shortcuts to different settings, like Internet settings and sound volume.


Working with Applications

An application (or program) is software that helps you complete tasks. Windows has built-in applications for different uses. For example, you can browse the internet using Microsoft Edge.

How to Open an Application:

  1. Click the Start button.

  2. Select the application you want.
  3. If you don’t see it, click All Programs to find it.
  4. The application will open in a new window.

In Windows 8, applications open from the Start screen instead of the Start menu. Click the Start button, then select an app.


Working with Windows

Whenever you open an application, file, or folder, it appears in a window. You can have multiple windows open at the same time. You should know how to move, resize, and close them.

Parts of a Window

In the upper-right corner of most windows, you will see three buttons:

  • Minimize: Hides the window. Click the icon on the taskbar to reopen it.

  • Maximize: Makes the window fill the entire screen.

  • Restore: Returns a maximized window to its original size.

  • Close: Closes the window.

How to Move a Window

  1. Click the top bar of the window.

  2. Drag it to a new position.
  3. Release the mouse.

How to Resize a Window

  1. Move the mouse to a corner of the window.

  2. Click and drag to make it bigger or smaller.
  3. Release the mouse.

Switching Between Windows

If multiple windows are open, click the taskbar icon of the window you want to use.

Shutting Down Your Computer

When finished, shut down your computer properly. The steps depend on your Windows version.


  • Windows 10: Click Start > Power > Shut down.
  • Windows 8: Click Start > Power > Shut down. (If missing, update to Windows 8.1.)
  • Windows 7 or earlier: Click Start > Shut down.

Restarting and Sleep Mode

  • Restart: Turns your computer off and on again. Use this if your computer is unresponsive.
  • Sleep Mode: Saves your work and uses less power. Your computer will start faster from sleep mode.
  • Laptops: Closing the lid puts it into sleep mode.

Waking Your Computer from Sleep Mode

Press any key or click the mouse to wake it.

This guide covers the basics of navigating Windows. With practice, you will become more comfortable using your computer!