How To Close An App On Windows 10

Windows 10, Microsoft’s flagship operating system, is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. However, even the most seasoned users can sometimes find themselves unsure of how to perform seemingly simple tasks, such as closing an app. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, understanding how to effectively manage your applications is crucial for maintaining a smooth-running system. In this article, we’ll explore various methods to close apps in Windows 10, ensuring that you can keep your workspace organized and your computer’s performance optimized.

Understanding the Basics: Closing Apps via the Title Bar

The most straightforward way to close an app in Windows 10 is by using the title bar. This traditional method is intuitive and quick, making it a go-to for many users.

Locate the app window you wish to close.
Look for the ‘X’ button on the top-right corner of the window.
Click the ‘X’ button to close the app.

While this method is simple, it’s not the only way to close apps in Windows 10. Let’s delve into more advanced techniques for managing your applications.

Keyboard Shortcuts: The Power User’s Tool

Keyboard shortcuts are a favorite among power users for their speed and convenience. To close an app using keyboard shortcuts, follow these steps:

Make sure the app you want to close is the active window.
Press Alt + F4 on your keyboard.

This command will instantly close the active app. It’s a quick and efficient method, especially when you’re working with multiple applications and need to close them rapidly.

Task Manager: The Ultimate App Management Solution

The Task Manager in Windows 10 is a powerful tool that provides detailed information about the applications and processes running on your computer. It also offers a way to close apps that may not respond to other methods.

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
Find the app you want to close in the list of processes.
Click on the app to select it.
Click the ‘End Task’ button at the bottom-right of the Task Manager window.

This method is particularly useful for dealing with unresponsive apps that refuse to close through conventional means.

The taskbar at the bottom of your screen is not just for launching apps; it’s also a quick access point for managing them. Here’s how to close an app using the taskbar:

Find the app’s icon on the taskbar.
Right-click on the icon.
Select ‘Close window’ from the context menu that appears.

This method is handy when you have multiple windows open and want to close a specific one without disrupting your workflow.

Command Prompt: For the Tech-Savvy User

If you’re comfortable with command-line interfaces, the Command Prompt offers a way to close apps using text commands. Here’s how to do it:

Press Windows Key + R, type ‘cmd’, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
Type
```
tasklist
```
to see a list of running applications and their corresponding process IDs (PID).
Find the PID of the app you want to close.
Type
```
taskkill /PID [PID number] /F
```
replacing ‘[PID number]’ with the actual PID of the app.

This method is powerful but should be used with caution, as it can close system processes if used incorrectly.

Windows 10’s Settings menu includes an ‘Apps’ section that allows you to manage your installed applications. While it’s primarily used for uninstalling apps, you can also force-close apps from here.

Open the Settings menu by pressing Windows Key + I.
Click on ‘Apps’.
Find the app you want to close in the list and select it.
Click ‘Advanced options’ and then ‘Terminate’ to close the app.

This method is less direct but can be useful for dealing with problematic apps that need to be reset.

Touchscreen Gestures: For Tablet Mode Users

If you’re using a touchscreen device in tablet mode, you can close apps with simple gestures.

Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to view open apps.
Find the app you want to close.
Swipe the app’s preview window upwards to close it.

This gesture-based method is intuitive and mimics the way many mobile operating systems handle app management.

FAQ Section: Addressing Common Concerns

What should I do if an app won’t close?

If an app refuses to close using standard methods, try using the Task Manager to end the task. If that fails, a system restart may be necessary.

Can closing apps improve my computer’s performance?

Yes, closing unnecessary apps can free up system resources and improve overall performance, especially if those apps are resource-intensive.

Is there a way to close all apps at once?

While there’s no built-in feature to close all apps at once, you can shut down or restart your computer to close all running applications.

Can I close apps from the System Tray?

Some apps that run in the background can be closed by right-clicking their icon in the System Tray and selecting ‘Exit’ or ‘Close’.

Is it safe to use the Command Prompt to close apps?

Using the Command Prompt is safe as long as you’re careful to close only the intended apps. Avoid ending system processes unless you’re certain it’s safe to do so.

Conclusion: Streamlining Your Windows 10 Experience

Closing apps in Windows 10 is a fundamental skill that can help maintain your computer’s performance and keep your workspace organized. Whether you prefer the simplicity of clicking the ‘X’ button, the efficiency of keyboard shortcuts, or the control offered by the Task Manager, there’s a method that suits your workflow. By mastering these techniques, you’ll ensure that your Windows 10 experience is as smooth and productive as possible.

Remember, while closing apps can help with performance, it’s also important to regularly update your system and manage your startup programs to keep your PC running at its best. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any app management task that comes your way.

References

Microsoft Support: Windows Help & Learning
Windows Central: Windows 10 Tips and Tricks
How-To Geek: Tech Tips, Reviews & More

Source :

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