[Guide] How to Get Back to Your Regular Desktop in Windows

[Guide] How to Get Back to Your Regular Desktop in Windows

/ Cris Mamon

Windows 10 is one of the most popular operating systems used worldwide. With its modern interface and numerous features, it has quickly become the go-to choice for many users. However, some users face getting stuck in tablet or full-screen mode and not knowing how to return to the normal desktop view.

If you’re one of these users, don’t worry – returning to the normal desktop view is straightforward. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps you need to take to get back to your regular desktop view in Windows 10.

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What Causes Windows 10 Getting Stuck

The three most common causes of Windows 10 getting stuck in tablet mode or full-screen mode are:

  1. Software glitch or bug: A software glitch or bug can cause issues with the operating system and its features, including tablet and full-screen modes. It occurs when there is a problem with the software code or how it interacts with other software or hardware components.
  2. Incorrect settings configuration: If the settings for tablet mode or full-screen mode are not set up correctly, it can cause issues with these features. For example, if tablet mode is set to always on, it can cause the computer to stay in tablet mode even when it is not intended.
  3. Incompatible software or driver: If software or a driver is installed on a computer not compatible with Windows 10 or its hardware components, it can cause issues with tablet and full-screen modes. For example, if the graphics card driver is not compatible with Windows 10, it can cause problems with full-screen mode.

How to Return to Normal Desktop in Windows 10

This section will explain restoring the desktop to its normal state on Windows 10 without plagiarizing the original text.

tablet mode screen

To begin, the first step is to disable Tablet Mode so that you can continue. To do this, press the Windows and I keys simultaneously to open Settings. Once the Settings window appears, select System from the options on the pop-up window. On the left panel, choose Tablet Mode, and then check the option that says “Don’t ask me and don’t switch.” Ensure that the toggle is turned off according to your preference. Once you have completed these steps, please verify that your desktop has been restored to its normal state on Windows 10.

How to Restore Old Windows Desktop Icons

To restore some old icons, such as “My Computer,” to the desktop, follow these instructions:

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize.
personalize option

2. Choose Theme from the left panel.

select the theme option

3. Go to the Desktop icon settings on the right panel.

desktop icon settings

4. Select the desktop icons you wish to include.

5. To preserve the modifications, you will need to select Apply, followed by OK.

click app and okay after selecting icons

How to Remove Tiles in Windows 10

If you want to get rid of tiles in Windows 10 to return to a normal desktop, follow these steps:

  1. Simultaneously pressing the Windows and R keys will launch the Run dialog box.

2. Enter “gpedit.msc” in the provided field and click OK.

gpedit msc

3. Go to Local Computer Policy, then User Configuration, followed by Administrative Templates, and select Start Menu and Taskbar. Finally, choose Notifications.

4. Locate the “Turn off tile notifications” entry in the right pane and double-click on it.

turn off tile notifications

5. Select Enabled and click Apply and OK to save the modifications. Once completed, please reboot your computer and check whether the desktop has been restored to its normal state.

enable turn off tile notifications

3 Tips to Easily Get Back to the Desktop in Windows 10

Use Win + D Keyboard Shortcut

Press the Windows key and D on your keyboard to display your desktop and minimize all windows in one step. Pressing these keys again will restore the windows to their original positions. Please note that this technique only functions when a physical keyboard is attached to your computer.

Via the Taskbar

To quickly access the desktop, right-click on a space in the taskbar and select “Show the desktop.”

Alternatively, you may notice a small “Show desktop” section on the Windows taskbar. This section is generally located at the right-most corner of the taskbar if it’s at the top or bottom of the desktop or the bottom if it’s on the right or left side of the desktop.

Clicking on this small area using your left mouse button will immediately take you to the desktop, and clicking it again will bring all open windows back.

Discover the Step-By-Step Instructions to Switch Back to Your Regular Desktop on Windows Easily

In this comprehensive guide, we have covered various methods to help you navigate back to your regular desktop in Windows. Whether you have inadvertently entered a different desktop mode or are exploring a new interface, the step-by-step instructions provided here will guide you through the process of returning to your familiar desktop environment.

From using keyboard shortcuts and navigating through settings to utilizing taskbar options, you now have a range of techniques to switch back to your regular desktop easily. Remember to choose the method that aligns with your Windows version and personal preferences.

With these valuable insights, you can effortlessly regain access to your desktop and continue working or enjoying your Windows experience as usual.

Cris Mamon
Meet the author

Chris has been writing professionally since the early 2000s. He has written articles for newspapers and magazines, books on Windows software development, and technical documentation on Microsoft products. He also has a passion for helping people get started with technology.