How to get more out of Windows 7

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Some new features included in the latest version of Microsoft's Windows operating system.

AERO PEEK

Gives users a quick look at their desktop. Hover your cursor over the far-right side of the taskbar and all your open windows will become transparent. You can also peek at a specific window to see exactly where it is by either using the live thumbnail previews or by using Windows Flip (ALT + TAB) to quickly cycle through running windows. Pausing on a thumbnail will bring the highlighted window into full-size view.

AERO SHAKE AND SNAP

Removes all but one window from a screen cluttered with several open windows. Use the mouse to "grab" the top of that window and shake it - move it rapidly up and down two or three times - and all the other windows on your screen will minimise to the taskbar. Shake the window again to restore the windows to their original sizes.

You can also snap open windows to screen borders, so you'll no longer have to click tiny objects in the corner of a window to change the window size. Maximise a window by dragging its border to the top of the screen. To return the window to its original size, drag the top of the window away from the top of the screen.

JUMP LISTS

Automatically show files based on how often and how recently they have been accessed. Each program on the Windows 7 Start menu and taskbar has a jump list. They are accessed by right-clicking on a taskbar icon or by clicking on a Start Menu arrow.

Some programs - such as Windows Media Player - populate Jump Lists with common tasks.

LIBRARIES

If you store a large number of files in different folders or on several PCs or devices, it can be hard to find the exact file you are looking for or manage files efficiently.

The "libraries" approach to file storage in Windows 7 provides a way to view files with common characteristics even if they are located in different places.

Windows 7 automatically creates libraries for items such as documents, music, pictures and videos.

A full list of Windows 7 features, and how to use them, is included in the Windows 7 product guide, which can be downloaded from Microsoft's website: http://tinyurl.com/ykhwg4b