How to Minimize the Active Window with a Single Key in Windows 10

Efficiency is key when working on a computer, and being able to quickly manage open windows can greatly enhance your workflow. If you frequently find yourself needing to minimize the active window, you might wonder if there's a way to do so with a single key press. Fortunately, with the help of AutoHotkey (AHK), you can configure your Windows 10 system to minimize any active window instantly by pressing Alt + `.

Why Use a Single Key Combination to Minimize Windows?

Minimizing a window typically requires a combination of keys, such as Win + Down Arrow or clicking the minimize button manually. However, assigning a dedicated key combination to perform this function can:

• Save time by reducing unnecessary keystrokes.
• Enhance productivity by allowing you to quickly clear your screen.
• Improve workflow by making window management seamless.

How to Set Up AutoHotkey for One-Key Minimize

To achieve this functionality, we will use AutoHotkey (AHK), a lightweight scripting language that automates repetitive tasks in Windows.

Step 1: Install AutoHotkey

Before creating the script, you need to install AutoHotkey:

1. Download AutoHotkey from the official website: https://www.autohotkey.com/.
2. Install it on your Windows 10 system by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Create an AutoHotkey Script

Now that AutoHotkey is installed, follow these steps to create a script that minimizes the active window when you press Alt + `.

1. Open Notepad or any text editor.
2. Copy and paste the following script:

   !`::WinMinimize, A

   • ! represents the Alt key.
   • "" is the backtick key (next to the number 1 on most keyboards).<li> <span>WinMinimize, A` tells Windows to minimize the currently active window.
3. Save the file with an .ahk extension, such as minimize.ahk.
   • Make sure to select "All Files" in the "Save as type" dropdown to avoid saving it as a .txt file.

Step 3: Run the Script

1. Locate the minimize.ahk file you just created.
2. Double-click the file to run the script.
3. Now, pressing Alt + ` will minimize the active window instantly.

Step 4: Set the Script to Run at Startup (Optional)

If you want this functionality to be available every time you start your computer, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and hit Enter.
2. Copy the minimize.ahk file and paste it into the Startup folder.
3. The script will now launch automatically every time Windows starts.

Conclusion

With a simple AutoHotkey script, you can streamline your workflow and minimize windows effortlessly with Alt + `. This small tweak can make a significant impact on your daily productivity, allowing you to navigate between tasks more efficiently.

If you're interested in automating more tasks with AutoHotkey, there are countless possibilities, from launching applications to creating custom keyboard shortcuts. Experiment and customize the script to fit your needs!