What is the quickest way to switch between application windows on a computer?

The quickest way to switch between application windows on a computer depends heavily on your operating system and personal preference, but here are some top contenders:

For Windows:

• Alt + Tab: This is the classic and arguably most widely used method. Press and hold the Alt key, then repeatedly tap the Tab key to cycle through your open applications. Releasing Alt selects the highlighted application. You can also hold Alt and Shift to cycle backwards. This is highly efficient for many users because it's easily remembered and doesn't require reaching for the mouse.

• Windows Key + Tab (Task View): This opens the Task View, providing a visual representation of all your open applications and virtual desktops. You can click the desired window or use the arrow keys and Enter to select it. This is advantageous when you have many windows open or use virtual desktops.

• Windows Key + [Number]: If you've pinned an application to your taskbar, pressing the Windows key and the number corresponding to its position on the taskbar (e.g., Windows key + 1 for the first application) will instantly switch to it. This is very fast if you frequently switch between a small, consistent set of applications.

• Alt + ` (Grave Accent): This cycles through windows of the same application. Useful if you have multiple windows of, say, Chrome or a text editor open.

For macOS:

• Command + Tab: This is macOS's equivalent to Windows' Alt + Tab. It cycles through open applications. Holding Command and Shift will reverse the cycling direction. Like Windows' Alt + Tab, this is fast and efficient for many users.

• Mission Control (using gestures): Three-finger swipe up brings up Mission Control, showing all open windows and spaces. A three-finger swipe left or right will switch between spaces (virtual desktops). This is especially fast if you're already using a trackpad.

• Expose (using gestures): Similar to Mission Control, Expose displays all windows of a specific application. This is faster for quickly switching between multiple windows within the same application.

For Linux:

Linux window management varies widely depending on the desktop environment (GNOME, KDE, XFCE, etc.). However, common methods include:

• Alt + Tab: Often works similarly to Windows.

• Desktop environment specific shortcuts: Most desktop environments have their own window switching shortcuts and functionalities. Check your desktop environment's documentation for the best options. Some use workspaces, which offer a virtual desktop approach similar to macOS and Windows 10.

General Tips for Faster Switching:

• Minimize unnecessary windows: The fewer windows you have open, the less time you'll spend switching.
• Organize your windows: Group related windows together logically.
• Learn shortcuts: Master the keyboard shortcuts relevant to your OS and applications.
• Consider virtual desktops: They can significantly improve organization and workflow.

The "quickest" method is ultimately subjective and depends on individual workflow, the number of open applications, and familiarity with keyboard shortcuts. Experiment with the different options to find what works best for you.