Mastering Maximization: A Comprehensive Guide on Making Windows Programs Open as Maximized

The efficiency of your workflow is often influenced by the way your windows open on a computer screen. Maximizing windows upon launch can streamline your experience and save valuable time. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the various methods and techniques for ensuring that Windows programs consistently open as maximized. Whether you’re a power user, a multitasker, or someone who simply appreciates a clutter-free desktop, these strategies will empower you to tailor your Windows experience to your preferences.

**1. Understanding Window States: Unveiling the Maximization Concept

a. Window States Basics:

• Windows programs generally open in one of three states: minimized, maximized, or restored (normal size).
• Maximizing a window fills the entire screen, providing an immersive and focused workspace.

b. Challenges with Default Settings:

• By default, some programs open in a restored state, meaning they don’t automatically maximize upon launch.
• This default behavior can be inconvenient for users who prefer a maximized view for certain applications.

c. Benefits of Maximization:

• Maximizing windows enhances visibility and usability.
• It minimizes distractions and allows users to focus on the content of the application.
• Maximization is particularly useful for applications that users frequently use in a full-screen mode, such as web browsers or productivity tools.

**2. Individual Program Settings: Tailoring Window Behavior

a. Built-In Options:

• Some programs provide built-in settings to control their window behavior.
• Check the preferences or settings menu within the application to see if there’s an option to open the program maximized.

b. Saving Window State:

• If the program has a “Save Window State” or “Remember Window Position” option, enable it.
• This ensures that the program opens in the last state it was in, including whether it was maximized.

c. Third-Party Tools:

• Explore third-party applications designed to manage window states.
• Tools like “WindowManager” or “DisplayFusion” offer advanced window management features, including saving and restoring window states.

**3. Windows Taskbar Shortcuts: A Quick and Simple Solution

a. Taskbar Right-Click:

• For programs pinned to the taskbar, right-click on the program icon.
• If there’s an option like “Open Maximized” or “Run as Maximized,” select it.

b. Shift + Right-Click:

• Holding down the Shift key while right-clicking on a taskbar program icon might reveal additional options.
• Look for options related to window behavior and maximization.

**4. Keyboard Shortcuts: Streamlining Maximization

a. Windows Key + Up Arrow:

• When a program window is active, pressing the Windows key along with the Up Arrow key maximizes the window.
• This shortcut is a quick way to maximize a window without using the mouse.

b. Alt + Space, X:

• Pressing Alt + Space opens the system menu for the active window.
• Typing “X” selects the Maximize option from the menu.

c. Creating Desktop Shortcuts:

• Create desktop shortcuts for the programs you want to open maximized.
• Right-click on the shortcut, go to Properties, and set the “Run” option to “Maximized.”

**5. Windows Registry Tweaks: Advanced Configuration

a. Disclaimer:

• Editing the Windows Registry involves making changes to critical system settings.
• Proceed with caution and create a backup before making any modifications.

b. Registry Path:

• Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer.
• Look for a key named “ShellState.”

c. Changing Values:

• Double-click on “ShellState” to edit its value.
• Look for a hexadecimal value. The ninth byte determines the state of the window.
• Change it to “03” for maximized, “02” for minimized, or “01” for normal.

**6. PowerShell Scripts: Automation for Efficiency

a. Creating a Script:

• Use PowerShell to create a script that opens a specific program maximized.
• Write a script that executes the program and then maximizes its window.

b. Running Scripts:

• Save the PowerShell script and run it whenever you want to open the program maximized.

c. Example Script:

**7. Task Scheduler: Automating Maximization at Startup

a. Creating a Task:

• Use the Task Scheduler in Windows to create a task that runs at startup.
• Set the action to launch the program you want maximized.

b. Setting Conditions:

• In the Conditions tab, check the “Start the task only if the computer is idle for” option and set it to 1 minute.
• This ensures that the task runs shortly after startup.

c. Enabling “Run with Highest Privileges”:

• In the General tab, check the “Run with highest privileges” option to ensure the task has the necessary permissions.

**8. Third-Party Window Managers: Advanced Control Options

a. Explore Window Managers:

• Third-party window managers like “Actual Window Manager” or “DisplayFusion” provide advanced control over window behavior.
• These tools often include features for automatically maximizing windows upon launch.

b. Configurable Rules:

• Some window managers allow users to set rules for specific programs, defining how they should behave when opened.
• Explore the configuration options of your chosen window manager to set up rules for maximization.

**9. Testing and Troubleshooting: Ensuring Consistent Results

a. Test Multiple Scenarios:

• After implementing changes, test the behavior of the program in various scenarios, such as opening from the taskbar, desktop shortcut, or within a script.

b. Troubleshooting:

• If the program doesn’t consistently open maximized, revisit the settings or scripts to ensure they are correctly configured.
• Check for program updates or patches that might impact behavior.

**10. User Account Control (UAC) Considerations: Permissions Matter

a. UAC Impact:

• Some changes, especially those involving the Registry, may require elevated permissions.
• Ensure that your user account has the necessary permissions to make changes to system settings.

b. Run as Administrator:

• When editing the Registry or running scripts, right-click and choose “Run as Administrator” to ensure elevated privileges.

Conclusion: Tailoring Your Window Experience

Maximizing windows upon launch is a preference that can significantly impact your daily computing experience. Whether you choose to leverage built-in options, keyboard shortcuts, Registry tweaks, PowerShell scripts, or third-party tools, the key is to tailor your window behavior to align with your workflow.

By mastering the various methods outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your most-used programs open as maximized, providing a clean, organized, and efficient workspace. Remember to approach advanced configurations like Registry edits or scripts with caution, and always create backups before making significant changes.

So, embark on the journey of customization, experiment with different methods, and elevate your Windows experience by ensuring your favorite programs open exactly the way you want them to—maximized and ready for action.