Windows Efficient Setup

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:23:37 +0800

Last month I read DHH’s blog post Introducing Omakub. Omakub is a project that helps you to setup your Ubuntu machine by running a single command. DHH composed a list of tools he uses on his Ubuntu.

In spirit of the post, I decided to setup my Windows machine efficiently like Omakub.

You can find the full setup script here.

Following is the keyboard Layout I am using.

Keyboard Layout

Tool: AutoHotKey, PowerToys

Shortcut	Description
Alt + Number	Switch between Apps
Win + Number	Switch between Desktops
Caplock	Switch between Input Methods
Caplock(hold)	Switch between Upper/Lower

Download VirtualDesktopAccessor.dll
Put the .dll and .ahk files in one folder, create a shortcut for Config.ahk.
Copy the shortcut to path C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup to make it auto startup.
Install PowerToys, remap LWin and LAlt.
(Optional) Turn off window animation in windows settings.

The Problem of Windows’ Shortcuts

As we know, the Windows shortcut is very limited when switching between apps and desktops. For users who are not English native speakers, switching input method when typing is also not a good experience.

Comparing with Windows, MacOS has a very powerful shortcut system. You can always use cmd + q to close a window, caplock to switch between input methods.

DHH moved the MacOS’ advantages to Linux. The Windows users can also refer to the Omakub project and build a more powerful development environment.

Efficiency on Steve Sun

Windows Efficient Setup

Keyboard Layout

The Problem of Windows’ Shortcuts