How to Change Display Order in Windows 10
Changing the display order in Windows 10 is a handy trick, especially if you’re juggling multiple monitors. This task helps you organize your workspace by rearranging how your monitors are positioned. You can do this through the Display Settings in just a few steps. It’s pretty straightforward and should only take a few minutes.
How to Change Display Order in Windows 10
This section will guide you through the steps to change the display order of your monitors. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to rearrange your screens to fit your workflow better.
Step 1: Right-click on the Desktop
Right-click anywhere on your desktop to bring up a context menu.
This menu has several options, like "View," "Sort by," and "Refresh." You’ll also see "Display settings" near the bottom.
Step 2: Select Display Settings
Click on "Display settings" from the context menu.
This action will open the Display settings window, where you can adjust various aspects of your monitor setup, including resolution, orientation, and display order.
Step 3: Identify Your Displays
Click on the "Identify" button to see numbers displayed on your screens.
Each monitor will show a number, helping you to understand which screen is which. This visual aid is crucial for correctly rearranging your displays.
Step 4: Drag and Drop Monitors
Drag the numbered boxes to rearrange your monitors in the desired order.
You can click and hold a box and then drag it to a new position. This step allows you to mirror the physical arrangement of your monitors.
Step 5: Apply Your Settings
Click the "Apply" button to save your changes.
After arranging your monitors, you need to apply the changes. Your screens might flicker for a moment as they adjust to the new configuration.
Once you’ve followed these steps, your monitors will be arranged in the order you specified. This new setup can make multitasking much more efficient.
Tips for Changing Display Order in Windows 10
- Keep in mind the physical arrangement of your monitors to avoid confusion.
- Use the "Identify" button as often as needed to ensure accuracy.
- Adjust the resolution settings if the display sizes look distorted after rearranging.
- Make sure to click "Apply" to save your changes, or your rearrangement will not take effect.
- If you make a mistake, you can always go back into the Display settings and adjust things again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the primary monitor in this process?
Yes, you can change the primary monitor by selecting the screen you want to set as primary and checking the box that says "Make this my main display."
What if my monitors are not detected?
Try reconnecting the cables or restarting your computer. Also, check if your graphics drivers are up to date.
How do I switch back to a single monitor setup?
In the Display settings, select the monitor you want to keep active, then change the multiple displays setting to "Show only on 1" or "Show only on 2."
Can I set different resolutions for each monitor?
Yes, you can set different resolutions for each monitor by selecting the monitor and adjusting its resolution in the Display settings.
Why does my mouse cursor not move smoothly between monitors?
This usually happens if the monitors are not perfectly aligned in the Display settings. Adjust their positions slightly to ensure smooth cursor movement.
Summary
- Right-click on the Desktop.
- Select Display Settings.
- Identify Your Displays.
- Drag and Drop Monitors.
- Apply Your Settings.
Conclusion
Changing the display order in Windows 10 is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your productivity. By arranging your monitors to match your workflow, you can move seamlessly between tasks and reduce the cognitive load of constantly reorienting yourself. Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or just someone who enjoys a well-organized digital workspace, this trick can make a significant difference.
If you still face issues, there are plenty of resources and forums where you can seek additional help. Don’t hesitate to experiment a little; the Display settings are relatively forgiving, and you can always revert to a previous setup if you’re not happy with the changes.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into your Display settings and create a setup that works best for you!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.