Find an app with Windows search: Windows + S
When this helps
Read the idea, learn the key combination and answer a question about when it would help.
Know when and how to find an app with windows search.
Windows search can help you locate an installed app without browsing the Start menu. It can also show file, settings and web results.
The keys and what happens
Where it works Windows 11
Key names are shown separately, not as a keyboard layout. A + between key boxes means combine them. A box named Plus means the actual Plus key. Follow the steps below for alternatives.
How to use it
Hold the Windows key, press S, then release both. Type the name of an app, such as Calculator. Read the results and click the matching installed app once.
What to watch for
Check the result type before opening it. A web result is not the same as an installed app. Press Escape to dismiss search. This is different from finding words inside the current webpage.
You can learn this shortcut without pressing it here. The real keys act on your computer or the app you are using.
When would you use it?
You know Calculator is installed but cannot see its icon. Which use fits?
Look for that app by name in Windows.
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