How to Open Recently Closed Apps in Windows
In the fast-paced digital world, we often find ourselves multitasking and closing applications without realizing it. Whether you accidentally closed a crucial document or lost your place in a video, opening recently closed apps in Windows can be a lifesaver. In this article, we will guide you through the various methods to open recently closed apps in Windows, ensuring that you can get back to your work or entertainment without any hassle.
Using the Taskbar
One of the simplest and quickest ways to open a recently closed app in Windows is by using the Taskbar. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Take a look at the Taskbar at the bottom of your screen.
2. Look for the app’s icon that you want to reopen. If you see it, click on it.
3. If you don’t see the icon, click on the “Show hidden icons” arrow on the right side of the Taskbar and look for the app’s icon there.
This method is especially useful if you have recently closed the app and it’s still listed on the Taskbar.
Using the Task View
Windows 10 introduced the Task View feature, which allows you to view all open apps and desktops on a single screen. To open a recently closed app using Task View, follow these steps:
1. Press the “Windows” key + “Tab” to open Task View.
2. You will see a list of all open apps and desktops. If the app you want to reopen is not open, it will be listed under “Recently opened” at the bottom of the screen.
3. Click on the app’s thumbnail to open it.
This method is particularly helpful if you have multiple open apps and desktops, as it provides a quick overview of your workspace.
Using the Recent Files Menu
Another way to open recently closed apps in Windows is by using the Recent Files menu. This feature is available in the File Explorer and certain apps. Here’s how to use it:
1. Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon on the Taskbar or pressing “Windows” key + “E”.
2. In the left pane, click on “Quick Access” or “This PC” (depending on your Windows version).
3. Scroll down to the “Recently used” section and click on the app you want to reopen.
This method is particularly useful if you frequently access the same files or apps.
Using the Command Prompt
For those who prefer using the Command Prompt, you can open recently closed apps using the following steps:
1. Press “Windows” key + “R” to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cmd” and press “Enter” to open the Command Prompt.
3. Type “start {PID}” (replace {PID} with the process ID of the app you want to reopen) and press “Enter”.
4. If you don’t know the process ID, you can find it by typing “tasklist” in the Command Prompt and searching for the app’s name in the list.
This method is more advanced and may not be suitable for everyone, but it can be a lifesaver in certain situations.
Conclusion
Opening recently closed apps in Windows can be a simple task, thanks to the various methods available. Whether you prefer using the Taskbar, Task View, Recent Files menu, or Command Prompt, these methods will help you get back to your work or entertainment in no time. By familiarizing yourself with these techniques, you can ensure that you never lose track of your important apps again.
