diff --git a/hub/powertoys/awake.md b/hub/powertoys/awake.md index 5cc90fb413..8c45d7e4f2 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/awake.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/awake.md @@ -49,18 +49,18 @@ To manage the execution of the tool from the system tray, right-click on the Pow ## Command Line Interface (CLI) -PowerToys Awake can also be executed as a standalone application, directly from the PowerToys folder. The following command line arguments can be used when running `PowerToys.Awake.exe` from the terminal or via a `.lnk` shortcut file: +PowerToys Awake can also be executed as a standalone application, directly from the PowerToys folder. The following command line arguments can be used when running _PowerToys.Awake.exe_ from the terminal or via a _.lnk_ shortcut file: | Argument | Description | | :---------------- | :---------- | -| `--use-pt-config` | Use the PowerToys configuration file to manage the settings. This assumes that there is a `settings.json` file for Awake, generated by PowerToys, that contains all required runtime information. This includes the Behavior Mode (indefinite or timed), whether screens should be kept on, and what the values for hours and minutes are for a temporary keep-awake.
When this argument is used, all other arguments are ignored. Awake will look for changes in the `settings.json` file to update its state. | +| `--use-pt-config` | Use the PowerToys configuration file to manage the settings. This assumes that there is a _settings.json_ file for Awake, generated by PowerToys, that contains all required runtime information. This includes the Behavior Mode (indefinite or timed), whether screens should be kept on, and what the values for hours and minutes are for a temporary keep-awake.
When this argument is used, all other arguments are ignored. Awake will look for changes in the `settings.json` file to update its state. | | `--display-on` | Keep displays on or off while the machine is kept awake. Expected values are `true` or `false`. | | `--time-limit` | Duration, in seconds, during which Awake keeps the computer awake. Can be used in combination with `--display-on`. | | `--expire-at` | Expiration date and/or time when Awake will turn off and resume the standard power state. Can be used in combination with `--display-on`. | | `--pid` | Attaches the execution of Awake to a Process ID (PID). When the process with a given PID terminates, Awake terminates as well. | > [!NOTE] -> The `settings.json` configuration file is located at `%HomePath%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\PowerToys\Awake\`. "Keep awake temporarily" options can be adjusted by modifying the `"customTrayTimes"` value, an array consisting of name and duration (in seconds) to stay awake. For example: `"customTrayTimes":{"8 hours":28800}`. +> The _settings.json_ configuration file is located at `%HomePath%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\PowerToys\Awake\`. "Keep awake temporarily" options can be adjusted by modifying the `"customTrayTimes"` value, an array consisting of name and duration (in seconds) to stay awake. For example: `"customTrayTimes":{"8 hours":28800}`. In absence of command-line arguments, PowerToys Awake will keep the computer awake indefinitely. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/cmd-not-found.md b/hub/powertoys/cmd-not-found.md index 24f6dfc1ee..06057c4318 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/cmd-not-found.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/cmd-not-found.md @@ -22,7 +22,7 @@ A PowerShell 7 module that detects command-line errors and suggests a relevant W ## Install the module -To install the Command Not Found module, navigate to the Command Not Found page in PowerToys settings and select the **Install** button. Once the module installation has completed, PowerShell 7 experimental features needed for the module to function will be enabled: +To install the Command Not Found module, go to the Command Not Found page in PowerToys settings and select **Install**. Once the installation has completed, PowerShell 7 experimental features needed for the module to function will be enabled: - PSFeedbackProvider - PSCommandNotFoundSuggestion @@ -39,4 +39,4 @@ Import-Module "/WinGetCommandNotFound.psd1" ## Uninstall the module -To uninstall the Command Not Found module, navigate to the Command Not Found page in PowerToys settings and select the **Uninstall** button. Once the module uninstall has completed, the block of commands previously added will be removed from the PowerShell profile file. +To uninstall the Command Not Found module, go to the Command Not Found page in PowerToys settings and select **Uninstall**. Once the uninstallation has completed, the block of commands previously added will be removed from the PowerShell profile file. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/color-picker.md b/hub/powertoys/color-picker.md index 93f580186c..417c139a21 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/color-picker.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/color-picker.md @@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ A system-wide color picking utility for Windows to pick colors from any screen a ### Enabling Color Picker -Enable Color Picker in the **Color Picker** tab in PowerToys Settings. +Enable Color Picker in PowerToys Settings. ### Activating Color Picker @@ -50,18 +50,18 @@ The Color Picker editor stores a history of up to 20 picked colors and lets you The colored bar at the top of the Color Picker editor lets you: -* fine tune your chosen color -* pick a similar color +- fine tune your chosen color +- pick a similar color To fine tune your chosen color, select the central color in the color bar. The fine-tuning control lets you change the color's **HSV**, **RGB**, and **HEX** values. **Select** adds the new color to the colors history. -To choose a similar color, select one of the segments on the left and right edges of the color bar. The Color Picker editor suggests two lighter shades on the left of the bar, and two darker shades on the right of the bar. Selecting one of these similar colors adds that color to the colors history. +To choose a similar color, select one of the segments on the top and bottom edges of the color bar. Selecting one of these similar colors adds it to the history. ![Color Picker Editor window](../images/pt-colorpicker-editor.gif) -To remove a color from the colors history, right-click a color and select **Remove**. +To remove a color from the history, right-click a color and select **Remove**. -To export the colors history, select and hold (or right-click) a color and select **Export**. You can group the exported values by colors or formats. +To export the colors history, right-click a color and select **Export**. You can group the values by colors or formats. ## Settings @@ -70,10 +70,10 @@ Color Picker has the following settings: | Setting | Description | | :--- | :--- | | **Activation shortcut** | The shortcut that activates Color Picker. | -| **Activation behavior** | Changes what happens when you activate Color Picker. Read more about this setting in [Activating Color Picker](#activating-color-picker). | +| **Activation behavior** | Sets what happens when you activate Color Picker. Read more about this setting in [Activating Color Picker](#activating-color-picker). | | **Default color format** | The color format that Color Picker copies to the clipboard. | -| **Show color name** | When turned on, this setting shows a high-level representation of the color. For example, 'Light Green', 'Green', or 'Dark Green'. | -| **Color formats** | This section lets you enable and add different color formats, and change the order of color formats in the Color Picker editor. Read more about **Color formats** in [Managing color formats](#managing-color-formats). +| **Show color name** | Shows a high-level representation of the color. For example, 'Light Green', 'Green', or 'Dark Green'. | +| **Color formats** | Enable and add different color formats, and change the order of color formats in the Color Picker editor. Read more about color formats in [Managing color formats](#managing-color-formats). ![Color Picker Settings screenshot](../images/pt-colorpicker-settings.png) @@ -81,15 +81,15 @@ Color Picker has the following settings: You can add, edit, delete, disable, and change the order of color formats in **Color formats**. -To change the order that color formats appear in the Color Picker editor, select **•••** next to a color format and select **Move up** or **Move down**. +To change the order that color formats appear in the Color Picker editor, select the **more** button (•••) next to a color format and select **Move up** or **Move down**. To disable a color format, turn off the toggle next to that color format. Color Picker doesn't show disabled color formats in the editor. -To delete a color format, select **•••** next to a color format and select **Delete**. +To delete a color format, select the **more** button (•••) next to a color format and select **Delete**. -To add a new color format, select **Add custom color format**. Choose the color format's **Name** and **Format**. Select **Save** to add the color format. The syntax for color formats is described in the **Add custom color format** dialog. +To add a new color format, select **Add custom color format**. Enter the color format's **Name** and **Format**. The syntax for color formats is described in the dialog. -To edit a color format, select it from the list. Edit the color format's **Name** and **Format** in the **Edit custom color format** dialog. Select **Update** to save your changes. The syntax for color formats is described in the **Edit custom color format** dialog. +To edit a color format, select it from the list. Edit the color format's **Name** and **Format** in the **Edit custom color format** dialog. The syntax for color formats is described in the dialog. Define color formats with these parameters: diff --git a/hub/powertoys/crop-and-lock.md b/hub/powertoys/crop-and-lock.md index 1381938cec..c4d7d7f257 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/crop-and-lock.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/crop-and-lock.md @@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ PowerToys **Crop And Lock** allows you to crop a current application into a smal ### How to use -To start using Crop And Lock, enable it in the PowerToys Settings (**Crop And Lock** tab). +To start using Crop And Lock, enable it in PowerToys Settings. Once enabled, focus a Window and press the "Thumbnail" shortcut (default: ⊞ Win+Ctrl+Shift+T) or the "Reparent" shortcut (default: ⊞ Win+Ctrl+Shift+R) to select an area of the window to crop. @@ -32,14 +32,15 @@ Select the **Close** button of the cropped window to close it and restore the or ### Thumbnail -Creates a window that shows the selected area of the original window. Any changes to the original window's selected area will be reflected on the thumbnail, but the original application can't be controlled through the thumbnail. This mode has the most compatibility with other applications. +Creates a window that shows the selected area of the original window. Any changes to the original window's selected area will be reflected on the thumbnail, but the original application can't be controlled through the thumbnail. This mode has the best compatibility. ### Reparent -Creates a window that replaces the original window, showing only the selected area. The application will now be controlled through the cropped window. Closing the cropped window will restore the original window. Not every window will react well to being contained on another application so this mode has many compatibility issues. It's advisable to use the "Thumbnail" mode instead if you find that a windows isn't reacting well to being cropped with the "Reparent" mode. +Creates a window that replaces the original window, showing only the selected area. The application will now be controlled through the cropped window. Closing the cropped window will restore the original window. +Not every window will react well to being contained in another application so this mode has many compatibility issues. It's advisable to use the "Thumbnail" mode instead if you find that a windows isn't reacting well to being cropped with the "Reparent" mode. ## Known issues - Cropping maximized or full-screen windows in "Reparent" mode might not work. It's recommended to resize the window to fill the screen corners instead. -- Some UWP apps won't react well to being cropped in "Reparent" mode. The Windows Calculator is a notable example of this. +- Some UWP apps won't react well to being cropped in "Reparent" mode. Windows Calculator is a notable example of this. - Applications that use sub-windows or tabs can react poorly to being cropped in "Reparent" mode. Notepad and OneNote are notable examples of applications that react poorly. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/environment-variables.md b/hub/powertoys/environment-variables.md index 19b4d49dc0..1914962db7 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/environment-variables.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/environment-variables.md @@ -8,8 +8,8 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, Environment Variables, Win] # Environment Variables -Environment Variables offers an easy and convenient way to manage environment variables. It also allows you to create profiles for managing a set of variables together. Profile variables have precedence over User and System variables. Applying the profile adds variables to User environment variables in the background. When a profile is applied, if there is an existing User variable with the same name, a backup variable is created in User variables which will be reverted to the original value on profile un-apply. - +Environment Variables offers an easy and convenient way to manage environment variables. It allows you to create profiles for managing a set of variables together. Profile variables have precedence over User and System variables. +Applying the profile adds variables to User environment variables in the background. When a profile is applied, if there is an existing User variable with the same name, a backup variable is created in User variables which will be reverted to the original value on profile un-apply. Applied variables list shows the current state of the environment, respecting the order of evaluation of environment variables (Profile > User > System). Evaluated Path variable value is shown at the top of the list. ![PowerToys Environment Variables screenshot](../images/powertoys-environment-variables.png) @@ -42,8 +42,8 @@ To apply a profile, set the **profile** toggle to On. Only one profile can be ap ## Settings -From the Settings menu, the following options can be configured: +From the settings, the following options can be configured: | Setting | Description | | :--- | :--- | -| Open as administrator | Allow management of System variables. If disabled, only profile and User variables can be modified. Environment Variables is opened as administrator by default. | +| Open as administrator | Allow management of System variables. If off, only profile and User variables can be modified. Environment Variables is opened as administrator by default. | diff --git a/hub/powertoys/fancyzones.md b/hub/powertoys/fancyzones.md index cf94d59047..8af089f141 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/fancyzones.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/fancyzones.md @@ -10,11 +10,11 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, FancyZones, Fancy, Zone, Zones, Win] # FancyZones utility FancyZones is a window manager utility for arranging and snapping windows into efficient layouts to improve your workflow and restore layouts quickly. -You can define a set of zone locations to use as targets for windows on your desktop. When you drag a window into a zone, or enter the associated keyboard shortcut, the window is resized and repositioned to fill that zone. +You can define a set of zone locations to use as targets for windows on your desktop. When you drag a window into a zone, or use the associated keyboard shortcut, the window is resized and repositioned to fill that zone. ## Snapping to a single zone with mouse -Drag the window. By default, you'll also need to select and hold the Shift key. You'll see the zones appear. As you move your mouse, hovering over a zone will highlight that zone. +Drag the window. By default, you'll also need to select and hold Shift. You'll see the zones appear. As you move your mouse, hovering over a zone will highlight that zone. You can also trigger zone selection mode by using a non-primary mouse button if **Use non-primary mouse button to toggle zone activation** is selected. @@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ If two zones are adjacent, you can snap a window to the sum of their area (round ### Snapping to multiple zones with the mouse and keyboard -Drag the window until one zone is activated, then press and hold the Ctrl key while dragging the window to select multiple zones. +Drag the window until one zone is activated, then hold Ctrl while dragging the window to select multiple zones. ![Two Zones Activation screenshot](../images/pt-fancyzones-twozones.png) @@ -70,23 +70,23 @@ To snap applications that are elevated (such as Windows Terminal or Task Manager ## Getting started with the editor -FancyZones includes an editor to give you more control over your window layouts that can be accessed in the PowerToys Settings. +FancyZones includes an editor for layouts that can be accessed in PowerToys Settings. ### Open the layout editor -Open the layout editor by selecting **Launch layout editor** or with Win+Shift+` ("back-tick" or "accent grave"). You can change the FancyZones layout editor shortcut in PowerToys Settings. +Open the layout editor by selecting **Open layout editor** or with Win+Shift+` ("back-tick" or "accent grave"). You can change the FancyZones layout editor shortcut in PowerToys Settings. ![FancyZones Settings UI](../images/pt-fancyzones-settings.png) ### Layout Editor: Choose your layout -When you first open the layout editor, you'll see a list of layouts that can be adjusted by how many windows are on the monitor. Selecting a layout shows a preview of that layout on the screen. The selected layout is applied automatically. Double-clicking a layout will apply it and close the editor. The editor will detect and display the available monitors. Select a monitor, and it becomes the target of the selected layout. +When you first open the layout editor, you'll see a list of layouts that can be adjusted by how many windows are on the monitor. Selecting a layout shows a preview of that layout on the screen. The selected layout is applied automatically. Double-clicking a layout will apply it and close the editor. Select a monitor, and it becomes the target of the selected layout. ![FancyZones Picker Multiple Monitors](../images/pt-fancyzones-multimon.png) #### Space around zones -**Show space around zones** sets the size of margin around each FancyZone window. Enter a custom value for the width of the margin in **Space around zones**. With the layout editor open, change **Show space around zones** after changing the values to see the new value applied. +**Show space around zones** sets the size of margin around each FancyZone window. Enter a custom width of the margin in **Space around zones**. With the layout editor open, change **Show space around zones** after changing the values to see the new value applied. **Distance to highlight adjacent zones** sets a custom value for the amount of space between zones until they snap together, or before both are highlighted enabling them to merge together. @@ -104,13 +104,13 @@ The **Grid** model starts with a three column grid and allows zones to be create #### Mouse -- To divide a zone: click your mouse. To rotate the divider: hold down the Shift key. +- To divide a zone: click your mouse. To rotate the divider: hold down Shift. - To move a divider: click on the thumb and drag or select the thumb by focusing the layout. - To merge/delete zones: select a zone, hold the left mouse button and drag the mouse until multiple zones are selected. Release the button and a popup menu will show up. Select **Merge** and they will become one zone. This is how a zone should be deleted, by merging it into another zone. #### Keyboard -- First, focus the layout by pressing Ctrl+Tab. All zones and dividers can be focused by pressing Tab key. +- First, focus the layout by pressing Ctrl+Tab. All zones and dividers can be focused by pressing Tab. - To divide a zone: focus the zone you want to divide and press S or Shift+S to divide it. - To move a divider: focus the divider and press arrow keys to move it. - To merge/delete zones: focus the divider between zones and press Delete. All zones adjacent to deleted divider will be merged into one zone. @@ -119,7 +119,7 @@ The **Grid** model starts with a three column grid and allows zones to be create The **Canvas** model starts with one zone and supports adding zones that can be moved and resized, similar to windows. Zones in the canvas model may be overlapping. -Canvas layout also has keyboard support for zone editing. Use the arrow keys (Left, Right, Up, Down) to move a zone by 10 pixels, or Ctrl+arrow to move a zone by 1 pixel. Use the Shift+arrow keys to resize a zone by 10 pixels (5 per edge), or Ctrl+Shift+arrow to resize a zone by 2 pixels (1 per edge). To switch between the editor and dialog, press the Ctrl+Tab keys. +Canvas layout also has keyboard support for zone editing. Use the arrow keys (Left, Right, Up, Down) to move a zone by 10 pixels, or Ctrl+arrow to move a zone by 1 pixel. Use Shift+arrow to resize a zone by 10 pixels (5 per edge), or Ctrl+Shift+arrow to resize a zone by 2 pixels (1 per edge). To switch between the editor and dialog, press Ctrl+Tab. ![FancyZones Window Editor Mode](../images/pt-fancyzones-canvaseditor.png) @@ -142,7 +142,7 @@ In the demo below, we start with a default template applied to the screen and tw | Setting | Description | | :-- | :-- | | Activation shortcut | To change the default hotkey, click on the control and enter the desired key combination. | -| Launch editor on the display | Select where the Editor will show. | +| Open editor on the display | Select where the Editor will show. | | Hold Shift key to activate zones while dragging | Toggles between auto-snap mode with the Shift key (disabling snapping during a drag) and manual snap mode where pressing the Shift key during a drag enables snapping. | | Use a non-primary mouse button to toggle zone activation | Clicking a non-primary mouse button toggles the zones activation | | Use middle mouse button to toggle multiple zones spanning | Use the middle mouse button to select multiple zones | diff --git a/hub/powertoys/file-explorer.md b/hub/powertoys/file-explorer.md index bd25a8e193..c3a842999d 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/file-explorer.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/file-explorer.md @@ -41,17 +41,17 @@ To enable preview support, set the extension to **On**. ![PowerToys Settings Enable File Explorer screenshot](../images/powertoys-settings-fileexplorer.png) -If the preview pane does not appear to work after setting the extension to **On**, there is an advanced setting in Windows that may be blocking the preview handler. Open the **Options** menu in Windows File Explorer and select the **View** tab. Under the **View** tab, you will see a list of **Advanced settings**. Ensure that **Show preview handlers in preview pane** has a check next to it in order for the preview pane to display. +If the preview pane does not appear to work after setting the extension to **On**, there is an advanced setting in Windows that may be blocking the preview handler. Go to **Options** in Windows File Explorer and under the **View** tab, you will see a list of **Advanced settings**. Ensure that **Show preview handlers in preview pane** is selected in order for the preview pane to display. ### Enabling the Explorer pane in Windows 11 -Open Windows File Explorer, select the **View** menu in the Explorer ribbon. Hover over **Show**, and then select **Preview pane**. +Open Windows File Explorer, go to **View** in the Explorer ribbon and select **Preview pane**. ![PowerToys Preview Pane demo for Windows 11](../images/powertoys-fileexplorer-win11.gif) ### Enabling the Explorer pane in Windows 10 -Open Windows File Explorer, select the **View** tab in the Explorer ribbon, and then select **Preview Pane**. +Open Windows File Explorer, go to **View** in the Explorer ribbon and select **Preview Pane**. ![PowerToys Preview Pane demo for Windows 10](../images/powertoys-fileexplorer.gif) diff --git a/hub/powertoys/file-locksmith.md b/hub/powertoys/file-locksmith.md index 1608ea7a2d..fc4456fc58 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/file-locksmith.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/file-locksmith.md @@ -15,9 +15,9 @@ File Locksmith is a Windows shell extension for checking which files are in use ## How to activate and use File Locksmith To activate File Locksmith, open PowerToys and turn on the **Enable File Locksmith** toggle. Select one or more files or directories in Windows File Explorer. If a directory is selected, all of its files and subdirectories will be scanned as well. -Right-click on the selected file(s), select **Show more options** from the menu to expand the list of menu options, then select **Unlock with File Locksmith** to open File Locksmith and see which processes are using the file(s). +Right-click on the selected file(s), select **Show more options** to expand the list of menu options, then select **Unlock with File Locksmith** to open File Locksmith and see which processes are using the file(s). -When File Locksmith is activated, it will scan all of the running processes that it can access, checking which files the processes are using. Processes that are being run by a different user cannot be accessed and may be missing from the list of results. To scan all processes, select **Restart as administrator**. +When File Locksmith is opened, it will scan all of the running processes that it can access, checking which files the processes are using. Processes that are being run by a different user cannot be accessed and may be missing from the list of results. To scan all processes, select **Restart as administrator**. ![Restart File Locksmith as administrator](../images/powertoys-file-locksmith-restart-as-admin.png) diff --git a/hub/powertoys/general.md b/hub/powertoys/general.md index a6d2c2ba2b..127129370d 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/general.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/general.md @@ -14,9 +14,7 @@ The general section of Microsoft PowerToys contains the following settings: ## Version -Here you can check for new updates and if one is available, you can download and install it. - -You can set if updates should be downloaded automatically. +Here you can check for new updates and if one is available, you can download and install it. You can set if updates should be downloaded automatically. ## Administrator mode @@ -38,4 +36,4 @@ Set a location where you want to save your PowerToys settings. You can also rest ## Experimentation -Will activate experimentation with new features for Windows Insider builds. +Will activate experimentation with new features on Windows Insider builds, if available. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/grouppolicy.md b/hub/powertoys/grouppolicy.md index 8886c82944..616cbfecc3 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/grouppolicy.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/grouppolicy.md @@ -159,7 +159,7 @@ These policies have a higher priority than, and will override, the policy "Confi Supported on PowerToys 0.68.0 or later. -This policy configures whether PowerToys experimentation is allowed. With experimentation allowed the user sees the new features being experimented if it gets selected as part of the test group. (Experimentation will only happen on Windows Insider builds.) +This policy configures whether PowerToys experimentation is allowed. With experimentation allowed the user sees the new features being experimented if it gets selected as part of the test group. Experimentation will only happen on Windows Insider builds. - If this setting is enabled or not configured, the user can control experimentation in the PowerToys settings menu. - If this setting is disabled, experimentation is not allowed. @@ -222,7 +222,7 @@ This policy configures whether PowerToys per-user installation is allowed or not Supported on PowerToys 0.68.0 or later. -This policy configures whether the automatic download and installation of available updates is disabled or not. (On metered connections updates are never downloaded.) +This policy configures whether the automatic download and installation of available updates is disabled or not. Updates are never downloaded on metered connections. - If enabled, automatic download and installation is disabled. - If disabled or not configured, the user can control this in the settings. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/hosts-file-editor.md b/hub/powertoys/hosts-file-editor.md index 50ade99531..3966072bbf 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/hosts-file-editor.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/hosts-file-editor.md @@ -9,8 +9,7 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, Hosts File Editor, Win] # Hosts File Editor utility Windows includes a local "Hosts" file that contains domain names and matching IP addresses, acting as a map to identify and locate hosts on IP networks. Every time you visit a website, your computer will check the hosts file first to see which IP address it connects to. If the information is not there, your internet service provider will look into the Domain Name Server (DNS) for the resources to load the site. - -The Hosts File Editor provides a convenient way to edit the hosts file configuration. This can be useful for scenarios like migrating a website to a new hosting provider or domain name, which may take a 24-48 hour period of downtime. Creating a custom IP address to associate with your domain using the hosts file can enable you to see how it will look on the new server. +The Hosts File Editor provides a convenient way to edit the hosts file. This can be useful for scenarios like migrating a website to a new hosting provider or domain name, which may take a 24-48 hour period of downtime. Creating a custom IP address to associate with your domain using the hosts file can enable you to see how it will look on the new server. ## Adding a new entry @@ -28,7 +27,7 @@ To add a new entry using the Hosts File Editor: ## Filtering host file entries -To filter host file entries, select the filter icon and then enter characters in either the Address, Hosts, or Comment field to narrow the scope of results. +To filter host file entries, select the filter icon and enter data in either the Address, Hosts, or Comment field to narrow the scope of results. ![PowerToys Hosts File Editor: Filtering entries](../images/pt-hosts-file-editor-filter.gif) @@ -42,15 +41,15 @@ From the Settings menu, the following options can be configured: | Setting | Description | | :--- | :--- | -| Launch as administrator | Open as administrator to be able edit the hosts file. If disabled, the editor is run in read-only mode. Hosts File Editor is started as administrator by default. | +| Open as administrator | Open as administrator to be able edit the hosts file. If disabled, the editor is run in read-only mode. Hosts File Editor is started as administrator by default. | | Show a warning at startup | Warns that editing hosts can change DNS names resolution. Enabled by default. | | Additional lines position | Default value is **Top**. If **Bottom** is selected, the file header is moved below hosts settings to the bottom. | | Consider loopback addresses as duplicates | Loopback addresses (like 127.0.0.1 and ::1) are considered as duplicates. | ## Troubleshooting -A "Failed to save hosts file" error appears if a change is made without administrator permissions: +A "Failed to save hosts file" message appears if a change is made without administrator permissions: ![PowerToys Hosts File Editor: Failed to save hosts file](../images/pt-hosts-file-editor-failed-to-save-hosts-file-error.png) -Select **Launch as administrator** in settings to fix the error. +Select **Open as administrator** in settings to fix the error. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/image-resizer.md b/hub/powertoys/image-resizer.md index 813420f076..23b02d5573 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/image-resizer.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/image-resizer.md @@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ Image Resizer is a Windows shell extension for bulk image-resizing. After instal ![Image Resizer Demo](../images/powertoys-resize-images.gif) -Image Resizer allows you to resize images by dragging and dropping your selected files with the right mouse button. This way, resized pictures can quickly be saved in a different folder. +Image Resizer allows you to resize images by dragging and dropping your selected files with the right mouse button. This way, resized pictures can quickly be saved in a folder. ![Image Resizer Drag And Drop Demo](../images/powertoys-resize-drag-drop.gif) @@ -22,13 +22,13 @@ Image Resizer allows you to resize images by dragging and dropping your selected ## Settings -On the **Image Resizer** tab, configure the following settings. +On the **Image Resizer** page, configure the following settings. ![PowerToys Image Resizer Settings](../images/powertoys-imageresize-settings.png) ### Sizes -Add new preset sizes. Each size can be configured as Fill, Fit or Stretch. The dimension to be used for resizing can be configured as centimeters, inches, percent and pixels. +Add new preset sizes. Each size can be configured as Fill, Fit or Stretch. The dimension to be used for resizing can be centimeters, inches, percent and pixels. #### Fill versus Fit versus Stretch @@ -41,11 +41,12 @@ Add new preset sizes. Each size can be configured as Fill, Fit or Stretch. The d ### Fallback encoding -The fallback encoder is used when the file cannot be saved in its original format. For example, the Windows Meta File (.wmf) image format has a decoder to read the image, but no encoder to write a new image. In this case, the image cannot be saved in its original format. Specify the format the fallback encoder will use: PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, or WMPhoto settings. **This is not a file type conversion tool, but only works as a fallback for unsupported file formats.** +The fallback encoder is used when the file cannot be saved in its original format. For example, the Windows Meta File (.wmf) image format has a decoder to read the image, but no encoder to write a new image. In this case, the image cannot be saved in its original format. Specify the format the fallback encoder will use: PNG, JPEG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, or WMPhoto settings. +**This is not a file type conversion tool, but only works as a fallback for unsupported file formats.** ### File -The file name of the resized image can be modified with the following parameters: +The file name of the resized image can use the following parameters: | Parameter | Result | | :--- | :--- | diff --git a/hub/powertoys/index.md b/hub/powertoys/index.md index b3ef543607..fe0ecbb08c 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/index.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/index.md @@ -53,7 +53,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Color Picker screenshot](../images/pt-color-picker.png)](color-picker.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Color Picker](color-picker.md) is a system-wide color picking utility activated with ⊞ Win+Shift+C. Pick colors from anywhere on the screen, the picker automatically copies the color into your clipboard in a set format. + [Color Picker](color-picker.md) is a system-wide color picking utility activated with ⊞ Win+Shift+C. Pick colors from anywhere on the screen, the picker automatically copies the color to your clipboard in a set format. Color Picker contains an editor that shows a history of previously picked colors, allows you to fine-tune the selected color and to copy different string representations. This code is based on [Martin Chrzan's Color Picker](https://github.com/martinchrzan/ColorPicker). :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -88,7 +88,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Environment Variables screenshot](../images/powertoys-environment-variables.png)](environment-variables.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Environment Variables](environment-variables.md) offers an easy and convenient way to manage environment variables. It also allows you to create profiles for managing a set of variables together. + [Environment Variables](environment-variables.md) offers an easy and convenient way to manage environment variables. You can create profiles for managing a set of variables together. :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -110,7 +110,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![File Explorer screenshot](../images/pt-file-explorer.png)](file-explorer.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [File Explorer add-ons](file-explorer.md) enable Preview pane and thumbnail rendering in File Explorer to display a variety of file types. To enable the Preview pane, select the "View" tab in File Explorer, then select "Preview Pane". + [File Explorer add-ons](file-explorer.md) enable Preview pane and thumbnail rendering in File Explorer to display a variety of file types. To open the Preview pane, go to **View** in File Explorer and select **Preview Pane**. :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -121,7 +121,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![File Locksmith screenshot](../images/powertoys-file-locksmith.png)](file-locksmith.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [File Locksmith](file-locksmith.md) is a Windows shell extension to check which files are in use and by which processes. Right-click on one or more selected files in File Explorer, and then select **Unlock with File Locksmith**. + [File Locksmith](file-locksmith.md) is a Windows shell extension to check which files are in use and by which processes. Right-click on one or more selected files in File Explorer and select **Unlock with File Locksmith**. :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -143,7 +143,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Image Resizer screenshot](../images/pt-image-resizer.png)](image-resizer.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Image Resizer](image-resizer.md) is a Windows Shell extension for quickly resizing images. With a simple right click from File Explorer, resize one or many images instantly. This code is based on [Brice Lambson's Image Resizer](https://github.com/bricelam/ImageResizer). + [Image Resizer](image-resizer.md) is a Windows Shell extension for quickly resizing images. With a right click from File Explorer, instantly resize one or many images. This code is based on [Brice Lambson's Image Resizer](https://github.com/bricelam/ImageResizer). :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -165,7 +165,11 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Mouse utilities screenshot](../images/pt-mouse-utils.png)](mouse-utilities.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Mouse utilities](mouse-utilities.md) add functionality to enhance your mouse and cursor. With Find My Mouse, quickly locate your mouse's position with a spotlight that focuses on your cursor. This feature is based on source code developed by [Raymond Chen](https://github.com/oldnewthing). Mouse Highlighter displays visual indicators when the left or right mouse buttons are clicked. Mouse Jump allows a quick jump on large displays. Mouse Pointer Crosshairs draws crosshairs centered on the mouse pointer. + [Mouse utilities](mouse-utilities.md) add functionality to enhance your mouse and cursor. + With Find My Mouse, quickly locate your mouse's position with a spotlight that focuses on your cursor. This feature is based on source code developed by [Raymond Chen](https://github.com/oldnewthing). + Mouse Highlighter displays visual indicators when basic mouse buttons are clicked. + Mouse Jump allows a quick jump on large displays. + Mouse Pointer Crosshairs draws crosshairs centered on the mouse pointer. :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -176,7 +180,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Mouse without Borders screenshot](../images/pt-mouse-without-borders.png)](mouse-without-borders.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Mouse Without Borders](mouse-without-borders.md) enables you to interact with multiple computers from the same keyboard and mouse, sharing clipboard contents and files between the machines seamlessly. + Use [Mouse Without Borders](mouse-without-borders.md) to interact with multiple computers from the same keyboard and mouse, sharing clipboard contents and files between the machines seamlessly. :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -198,7 +202,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Peek screenshot](../images/powertoys-peek.png)](peek.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Peek](peek.md) allows you to preview file content without the need to open multiple applications or interrupt your workflow. Simply select the file and use the shortcut (Ctrl+Space) + [Peek](peek.md) allows you to preview file content without the need to open multiple applications or interrupt your workflow. Select the file and use the shortcut (Ctrl+Space) :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -209,7 +213,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![PowerRename screenshot](../images/pt-rename.png)](powerrename.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [PowerRename](powerrename.md) enables you to perform bulk renaming, searching and replacing file names. It includes advanced features, such as using regular expressions, targeting specific file types, previewing expected results, and the ability to undo changes. This code is based on [Chris Davis's SmartRename](https://github.com/chrdavis/SmartRename). + Use [PowerRename](powerrename.md) to perform bulk renaming; searching and replacing file names. It includes advanced features, such as using regular expressions, targeting specific file types, previewing expected results, and the ability to undo changes. This code is based on [Chris Davis's SmartRename](https://github.com/chrdavis/SmartRename). :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -231,7 +235,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Quick Accent screenshot](../images/pt-keyboard-accent.png)](Quick-accent.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Quick Accent](Quick-accent.md) is an alternative way to type accented characters, useful for when a keyboard doesn't support that specific accent with a quick key combo. + [Quick Accent](Quick-accent.md) is an alternative way to type accented characters, useful for when a keyboard doesn't support that specific character with a quick key combo. :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -253,7 +257,7 @@ The currently available utilities include: [![Screen Ruler screenshot](../images/pt-screen-ruler.png)](screen-ruler.md) :::column-end::: :::column span="2"::: - [Screen Ruler](screen-ruler.md) allows you to quickly measure pixels on your screen based with image edge detection. To activate, use the shortcut ⊞ Win+Shift+M. This was inspired by [Pete Blois's Rooler](https://github.com/peteblois/rooler). + Use [Screen Ruler](screen-ruler.md) to quickly measure pixels on your screen based with image edge detection. To activate, use the shortcut ⊞ Win+Shift+M. This was inspired by [Pete Blois's Rooler](https://github.com/peteblois/rooler). :::column-end::: :::row-end::: @@ -294,8 +298,6 @@ The currently available utilities include: Currently, PowerToys is available in the following languages: Arabic (Saudi Arabia), Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional), Czech, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Ukrainian. -_Note that new elements of the app might sometimes not yet be translated in the first version release._ - ## PowerToys video walk-through In this video, Clint Rutkas (PM for PowerToys) walks through how to install and use the various utilities available, in addition to sharing some tips, info on how to contribute, and more. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/install.md b/hub/powertoys/install.md index f7ae3ac1cd..1efa0ddff9 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/install.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/install.md @@ -21,9 +21,9 @@ We recommend installing PowerToys via GitHub or Microsoft Store, but alternative - Our installer will install the following runtimes: - [Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime](https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=2124703) bootstrapper (this will always install the latest version available) -To ensure that your machine meets these requirements, check your Windows version and build number by pressing ⊞ Win+R, then type `winver` and press OK. Or enter the `ver` command in Windows Command Prompt. You can [update to the latest Windows version](ms-settings:windowsupdate) in **Windows Update**. +To see if your machine meets these requirements, check your Windows version and build number by opening a Run dialog (Win+R), then type `winver` and select OK or Enter. Alternatively, enter the `ver` command in Windows Command Prompt. You may be able to [update to the latest Windows version](ms-settings:windowsupdate) in **Windows Update**. -## Installing with Windows executable file via GitHub +## Installing with Windows executable file from GitHub > [!div class="nextstepaction"] > [Install PowerToys](https://aka.ms/installpowertoys) @@ -57,11 +57,11 @@ Here are the common commands you may want: | Command | Abbreviation | Function | |----------|--------------| ------------ | -| /quiet | /q | Silent install | -| /silent | /s | Silent install | -| /passive | | progress bar only install | -| /layout | | create a local image of the bootstrapper | -| /log | /l | log to a specific file | +| /quiet | /q | Silent install | +| /silent | /s | Silent install | +| /passive | | progress bar only install | +| /layout | | create a local image of the bootstrapper | +| /log | /l | log to a specific file | ### Extracting the MSI from the bundle @@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ cd $Env:WIX\"bin" ### Fixes for uninstalling 0.51 and earlier builds issues -If you have an issue where the MSI is not accessible, you can download the installer, that corresponds with the installed version, via the [PowerToys release page](https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/releases) and then run the following command. You'll want to change EXECUTABLE_INSTALLER_NAME to what the file name actually is. +If you have an issue where the MSI is not accessible, you can download the installer that corresponds with the installed version via the [PowerToys release page](https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/releases) and then run the following command. You'll need to change EXECUTABLE_INSTALLER_NAME to the actual file name. In PowerShell, run `.\EXECUTABLE_INSTALLER_NAME.exe --extract_msi` and this will extract the MSI to your desktop. @@ -132,6 +132,6 @@ After successfully installing PowerToys, an overview window will display with in ## Updates -PowerToys uses an auto-updater that checks for new versions when the app is running. If enabled, a toast notification will appear when an update is available. Updates can also be checked for manually from the PowerToys Settings, under the General page. +PowerToys uses an auto-updater that checks for new versions when the app is running. If enabled, a toast notification will appear when an update is available. Updates can also be checked for manually from the PowerToys Settings. ![PowerToys Update](../images/powertoys-updates.png) diff --git a/hub/powertoys/keyboard-manager.md b/hub/powertoys/keyboard-manager.md index 392aac643e..a4c102eff9 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/keyboard-manager.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/keyboard-manager.md @@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ For example, you can exchange the letter A for the letter BCtrl+C will copy text in many applications. With PowerToys Keyboard Manager utility, you can swap that shortcut for ⊞ Win+C. Now, ⊞ Win+C will copy text. If you do not specify a targeted application in PowerToys Keyboard Manager, the shortcut exchange will be applied globally across Windows. -Also, you can exchange key or shortcut to arbitrary unicode text sequence. For example, you can exchange the letter H for the text `Hello!`. When you press the H key, `Hello!` will be inserted. Similarly, you can exchange shortcut key Ctrl+G for some text (e.g. `Hello from shortcut!`) and that text will be inserted on Ctrl+G. +Also, you can exchange key or shortcut to arbitrary unicode text sequence. For example, you can exchange the letter H for the text `Hello!`. When you press the H key, `Hello!` will be inserted. Similarly, you can use shortcut Ctrl+G to send some text (e.g. `Hello from shortcut!`). PowerToys Keyboard Manager must be enabled (with PowerToys running in the background) for remapped keys and shortcuts to be applied. If PowerToys is not running, key remapping will no longer be applied. @@ -38,7 +38,7 @@ To create mappings with Keyboard Manager, open the PowerToys Settings. In PowerT ### Remapping keys -To remap a key, changing it to a new value, open the Remap Keyboard settings window with **Remap a Key**. When first opened, no predefined mappings will be displayed. Select **Add key remapping** to add a new remap. +To remap a key, open the Remap Keyboard settings window with **Remap a Key**. When first opened, no predefined mappings will be displayed. Select **Add key remapping** to add a new remap. Note that various keyboard keys actually send a shortcut. Once a new remap row appears, select the input key whose output you want to _change_ in the “Select” column. Select the new key, shortcut or text value to assign in the “To send” column. @@ -85,7 +85,7 @@ To remap a shortcut key combination, like Ctrl+C, select * When first opened, no predefined mappings will be displayed. Select **Add shortcut remapping** to add a new remap. -Once a new remap row appears, select the input keys whose output you want to _change_ in the “Select” column. Select the new shortcut value to assign in the “To send” column. +When a new remap row appears, select the input keys whose output you want to _change_ in the “Select” column. Select the new shortcut value to assign in the “To send” column. For example, the shortcut Ctrl+C copies selected text. To remap that shortcut to use the Alt key, rather than the Ctrl key: @@ -103,7 +103,7 @@ There are a few rules to follow when remapping shortcuts. These rules only apply #### Shortcuts with chords -Shortcuts can be created with one or more modifiers and two non-modifier keys. These are called "chords". In order to create a chord, select **Edit** to open the dialog to record the shortcut using the keyboard. Once opened, toggle on the **Allow chords** switch. This allows you to enter two non-modifier keys. +Shortcuts can be created with one or more modifiers and two non-modifier keys. These are called "chords". In order to create a chord, select **Edit** to open the dialog to record the shortcut using the keyboard. Once opened, toggle on the **Allow chords** switch. This allows you to enter two non-modifier keys. For example, you can create shortcuts using a chord based on 'V' for **V**olume **U**p and **V**olume **D**own like this: | Select: | To send: | @@ -111,7 +111,7 @@ For example, you can create shortcuts using a chord based on 'V' for **V**olume | `Shift` + `Ctrl` + `V` , `U` | `Volume Up` | | `Shift` + `Ctrl` + `V` , `D` | `Volume Down` | -Chords are handy if you have a number of shortcuts that are similar, and so it makes sense to have them all start with the same non-modifier key. +Chords are handy if you have a number of shortcuts that are similar, and it makes sense to have them all start with the same non-modifier key. ### Remap a shortcut to a single key @@ -128,7 +128,7 @@ For example, to replace the shortcut ⊞ Win+← (left arr ### Remap a shortcut to text -For example, to replace the shortcut Ctrl+G with `Hello!` text, first select "Text" in the combo box and then fill the text box with "Hello!": +For example, to replace the shortcut Ctrl+G with `Hello!` text, choose **Text** in the combo box and enter "Hello!": | Select: | To send: | | :--- | :--- | @@ -136,20 +136,20 @@ For example, to replace the shortcut Ctrl+G with `Hello!` ### Remap a shortcut to start an app -Keyboard Manager enables you to start applications with the activation of any shortcut. Select "Start App" from the action in the "To:" column to do this. There are a few options to configure when using this type of shortcut. They are: +Keyboard Manager enables you to start applications with the activation of any shortcut. Choose **Start App** for the action in the "To:" column. There are a few options to configure when using this type of shortcut. | Option | Meaning | | :--- | :--- | | App | This is the path to an executable. Environment variables will be expanded. | | Args | Arguments that will be sent to the app. | | Start in | The working directory for the app to start in. | -| Elevation | Specify the elevation level to start the app. The options include Normal, Elevated, and Different User. | -| If running | What action should be taken when this shortcut is activated while the app is already running? The options are: Show Window, Start another instance, Do nothing, Close, End task. | -| Visibility | Specifies whether the app will be visible. This is useful when the app is a console or something you don't want to see. | +| Elevation | Specify the elevation level to start the app. The options include **Normal**, **Elevated**, and **Different User**. | +| If running | What action should be taken when this shortcut is activated while the app is already running? The options are: **Show Window**, **Start another instance**, **Do nothing**, **Close**, **End task**. | +| Visibility | The app will be visible. This is useful if the app is a console or something you don't want to see. | ### Remap a shortcut to open a URI -This type of shortcut action will open a URI. The only option is the actual Path/URI. Almost anything you can issue on the command line should work. See [Launch an app with a URI](/windows/uwp/launch-resume/launch-app-with-uri) for more examples. +This type of shortcut action will open a URI. The only input is the actual Path/URI. Almost anything you can issue on the command line should work. See [Launch an app with a URI](/windows/uwp/launch-resume/launch-app-with-uri) for more examples. ### App-specific shortcuts @@ -180,13 +180,13 @@ To select a key or shortcut to remap: - Select **Select**. - Use the drop-down menu. -Once you select **Select**, a dialogue window will open in which you can enter the key or shortcut, using your keyboard. Once you’re satisfied with the output, hold Enter to continue. To leave the dialogue, hold Esc. +Once you select **Select**, a dialog window will open in which you can enter the key or shortcut, using your keyboard. Once you’re satisfied with the output, hold Enter to continue. To leave the dialog, hold Esc. Using the drop-down menu, you can search with the key name and additional drop-down values will appear as you progress. However, you can not use the type-key feature while the drop-down menu is open. ## Orphaning Keys -Orphaning a key means that you mapped it to another key and no longer have anything mapped to it. For example, if the key is remapped from `A` to `B`, then a key no longer exists on your keyboard that results in `A`. To ensure this does not happen by accident, a warning will display for any orphaned keys. To fix this, select **╋** to create another remapped key that is mapped to result in `A`. +Orphaning a key means that you mapped it to another key and no longer have anything mapped to it. For example, if the key is remapped from `A` to `B`, then a key no longer exists on your keyboard that results in `A`. To remind you of this, a warning will display for any orphaned keys. To fix this, create another remapped key that is mapped to result in `A`. ![PowerToys Keyboard Manager orphaned key](../images/powertoys-keyboard-remap-orphaned.png) @@ -198,7 +198,7 @@ For key remapping to work, PowerToys must be running in the background and Keybo ### Can I use Keyboard Manager at my log-in screen? -No, Keyboard Manager is only available when PowerToys is running and doesn’t work on any password screen, including while Run As Admin. +No, Keyboard Manager is only available when PowerToys is running and doesn't work on any password screen, including while Run As Admin. ### Do I have to restart my computer or PowerToys for the remapping to take effect? @@ -231,12 +231,13 @@ Keyboard Manager lists mappings for all known physical keyboard keys. Some of th If you have tried to remap a key or shortcut and are having trouble, it could be one of the following issues: - **Run As Admin:** Remapping will not work on an app or window if that window is running in administrator (elevated) mode and PowerToys is not running as administrator. Try [running PowerToys as an administrator](administrator.md). -- **Not Intercepting Keys:** Keyboard Manager intercepts keyboard hooks to remap your keys. Some apps that also do this can interfere with Keyboard Manager. To fix this, go to the settings, disable and enable Keyboard Manager. +- **Not intercepting keys:** Keyboard Manager intercepts keyboard hooks to remap your keys. Some apps that also do this can interfere with Keyboard Manager. To fix this, go to the settings, disable and enable Keyboard Manager. ## Known Issues - Keyboard Manager should not be used when playing video games. Keyboard Manager interception of key presses currently will impact the FPS. - [Remapping keys like Win, Ctrl, Alt or Shift may break gestures and some special keys](https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/issues/3703) - AltGr and Ctrl+Alt gives issues, since AltGr behaves as (L)Ctrl + (R)Alt and remapping one of these keys can break the function. +- Note that some keyboard keys actually send a shortcut. Common examples are the Office key (Win+Ctrl+Alt+Shift) and the Copilot key (Win + C or Left-Shift + Windows key + F23). See the list of all [open keyboard manager issues](https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/issues?q=is%3Aopen+is%3Aissue+label%3A%22Product-Keyboard+Shortcut+Manager%22). diff --git a/hub/powertoys/mouse-utilities.md b/hub/powertoys/mouse-utilities.md index c8c311689c..4678f96e13 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/mouse-utilities.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/mouse-utilities.md @@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ Mouse utilities is a collection of features that enhance mouse and cursor functi ## Find my mouse -Activate a spotlight that focuses on the cursor's position pressing the Ctrl key twice, using a custom shortcut or shaking the mouse. Click the mouse or press any keyboard key to dismiss it. +Activate a spotlight that focuses on the cursor's position by pressing the Ctrl key twice, using a custom shortcut or by shaking the mouse. Click the mouse or press any keyboard key to dismiss it. If you move the mouse while the spotlight is active, the spotlight will dismiss on its own shortly after the mouse stops moving. ![Screenshot of Find my mouse](../images/pt-mouse-utilities-find-my-mouse.gif) diff --git a/hub/powertoys/mouse-without-borders.md b/hub/powertoys/mouse-without-borders.md index 31a4f33368..1c1bee7190 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/mouse-without-borders.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/mouse-without-borders.md @@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ With the latest version of PowerToys installed, you will see Mouse Without Borde ![Screenshot of Mouse Without Borders settings after entering the first computer information](../images/powertoys-mouse-without-borders-enter-security-key.png) -4. Once the computers are connected, you will be able to switch between them by moving your mouse cursor beyond the edge of the screen, transitioning between computers. +4. Once the computers are connected, you will be able to move between them by moving your mouse cursor beyond the edge of the screen. ![Screenshot of Mouse Without Borders settings on the second computer after connecting](../images/powertoys-mouse-without-borders-after-connect-2.png) @@ -119,6 +119,6 @@ If the connection is lost: - Copy/Paste between machines only works with a single file and the size limit is 100MB. - Drag/Drop between machines works with single file only and it does not work with network files. - Copy/Paste, Drag/Drop does not work with folder and multiple files, the workaround is to zip them first. -- If the host machine has a full-screen focused Remote Desktop/virtual machine window (or some kind of simulator window), the keyboard might not follow the mouse to another machine. The workaround is to enable the option "Hide mouse at screen edge" in the Settings or switch the focus to another window first. +- If the host machine has a full-screen focused Remote Desktop/virtual machine window (or some kind of simulator window), the keyboard might not follow the mouse to another machine. The workaround is to enable the option **Hide mouse at screen edge** in the Settings or switch the focus to another window first. - The mouse pointer might be invisible if there is no physical mouse attached to the machine. Plug in an unused mouse or turn on **Mouse Keys** in Control Panel. - Some settings may not sync correctly and may need to be manually changed to be the same on all machines. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/paste-as-plain-text.md b/hub/powertoys/paste-as-plain-text.md index 4355673a4d..852439a68e 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/paste-as-plain-text.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/paste-as-plain-text.md @@ -17,7 +17,7 @@ PowerToys **Paste as Plain Text** enables you to paste text stored in your clipb ### Enabling -To start using Paste as Plain Text, enable it in the PowerToys Settings (Paste as Plain Text tab). +To start using Paste as Plain Text, enable it in the PowerToys Settings. ### Activating diff --git a/hub/powertoys/peek.md b/hub/powertoys/peek.md index 13cabd534f..55a3007d6e 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/peek.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/peek.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ --- title: PowerToys Peek utility for Windows -description: A system-wide utility for Windows that allows you to quickly preview file content. +description: A system-wide utility for Windows to quickly preview file content. ms.date: 08/03/2023 ms.topic: article no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, Peek, Win] @@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, Peek, Win] # Peek utility -A system-wide utility for Windows that allows you to preview file content without the need to open multiple applications or interrupt your workflow. It offers a seamless and quick file preview experience for various file types, including images, Office documents, web pages, Markdown files, text files, and developer files. +A system-wide utility for Windows to preview file content without the need to open multiple applications or interrupt your workflow. It offers a seamless and quick file preview experience for various file types, including images, Office documents, web pages, Markdown files, text files, and developer files. ![Screenshot of PowerToys Peek utility](../images/powertoys-peek.png) @@ -20,17 +20,16 @@ Using Left and Right or Up and Down, ## Pin preview window position and size -The Peek window adjusts its size based on the dimensions of the images being previewed. However, if you prefer to keep the window's size and position, you can utilize the pinning feature. -By selecting the pinning button located in the top right corner of the Peek window, the window will preserve the current size and position. -Selecting the pinning button again will unpin the window. When unpinned, the Peek window will return to the default position and size when previewing the next file. +The Peek window adjusts its size based on the dimensions of the images being previewed. However, if you prefer to keep the window's size and position, you can use the pinning feature. +By selecting the pinning button, the window will preserve the current size and position. Selecting the pinning button again will unpin the window. When unpinned, the Peek window will return to the default position and size when previewing the next file. ## Open file with the default program -Select **Open with** on the top or Enter to open the current file with the default program. +Select **Open with** or Enter to open the current file with the default program. ## Settings -From the Settings menu, the following options can be configured: +From the settings page, the following options can be configured: | Setting | Description | | :--- | :--- | diff --git a/hub/powertoys/powerrename.md b/hub/powertoys/powerrename.md index 9a3b4ac075..e02973bbee 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/powerrename.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/powerrename.md @@ -158,9 +158,7 @@ For most use cases, a simple search and replace is sufficient. There may be occa Regular Expressions define a search pattern for text. They can be used to search, edit and manipulate text. The pattern defined by the regular expression may match once, several times, or not at all for a given string. PowerRename uses the [ECMAScript](https://wikipedia.org/wiki/ECMAScript) grammar, which is common amongst modern programming languages. -To enable regular expressions, select **Use Regular Expressions**. - -**Note:** You will likely want to select **Match all occurrences** while using regular expressions. +To enable regular expressions, select **Use Regular Expressions**. Note: You will likely want to select **Match all occurrences** while using regular expressions. To use the [Boost library](https://www.boost.org/doc/libs/1_74_0/libs/regex/doc/html/boost_regex/syntax/perl_syntax.html) instead of the standard library, select the **Use Boost library** option in the PowerToys settings. It enables extended features, like [lookbehind](https://www.boost.org/doc/libs/1_74_0/libs/regex/doc/html/boost_regex/syntax/perl_syntax.html#boost_regex.syntax.perl_syntax.lookbehind), which are not supported by the standard library. @@ -180,8 +178,7 @@ Simple matching examples. | `foo[\s\S]*bar` | Match everything between and including "foo" and "bar" | Matching and variable examples. Capturing groups are defined in parentheses `()`. To refer to them, use `$` followed by a number: `$1` will refer to the first group, `$2` to the second etc. - -_When using the variables, "Match all occurrences" must be selected._ +When using the variables, "Match all occurrences" must be selected. | Search for | Replace with | Description | |:--------------------------------------------------------|:-------------|:-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| @@ -217,7 +214,7 @@ Filters can be used in PowerRename to narrow the results of the rename. Use the ## Settings -Additional options can be configured from the **PowerRename** tab in the Settings, as described below: +Additional options can be configured in the settings, as described below: | Setting | Description | | :--- | :--- | @@ -226,4 +223,4 @@ Additional options can be configured from the **PowerRename** tab in the Setting | Enable auto-complete for the search and replace fields | Automatically suggest terms to use in the search and replace fields based on prior uses of PowerRename | | Maximum number of items | The largest number of search and replace suggestions to display | | Show recently used strings | When opening PowerRename, populate the search and replace fields with the last values used | -| Use Boost library | Enable extended RegEx functionality. See [Regular Expressions](#regular-expressions) for more details | +| Use Boost library | Enable extended regex functionality. See [Regular Expressions](#regular-expressions) for more details | diff --git a/hub/powertoys/quick-accent.md b/hub/powertoys/quick-accent.md index cd0dcb7d22..2da13a33ce 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/quick-accent.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/quick-accent.md @@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, Quick Accent, Win] Quick Accent is an alternative way to type accented characters, useful when a keyboard doesn't support that specific accent with a quick key combo. This tool is based on [Damien Leroy's PowerAccent](https://github.com/damienleroy/PowerAccent). -In order to use the Quick Accent utility, open PowerToys Settings, select the **Quick Accent** tab, and turn on the **Enable** toggle. +In order to use the Quick Accent utility, open PowerToys Settings, select the **Quick Accent** page, and turn on the **Enable** toggle. ## How to activate diff --git a/hub/powertoys/registry-preview.md b/hub/powertoys/registry-preview.md index 852d8e5aa2..00eda014c2 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/registry-preview.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/registry-preview.md @@ -17,19 +17,19 @@ PowerToys **Registry Preview** simplifies the process of visualizing and editing ### Enable -To start using Registry Preview, enable it in the PowerToys Settings (**Registry Preview** tab). +To start using Registry Preview, enable it in the PowerToys Settings. ### How to activate -Select one or more .reg files in Windows File Explorer. Right-click on the selected file(s), then select **Preview** to open Registry Preview. On Windows 11: select **Show more options** from the menu to expand the list of menu options. **Registry Preview** can also be opened from PowerToys Settings' **Registry Preview** tab. +Select one or more .reg files in Windows File Explorer. Right-click on the selected file(s) and select **Preview** to open Registry Preview. On Windows 11: select **Show more options** to expand the list of menu options. **Registry Preview** can also be opened from PowerToys Settings. **Note:** Currently, there is a 10MB file limit for opening Windows Registry files with Registry Preview. It will show a message if a file contains invalid content. ## How to use -After opening a Windows Registry file, the file content is shown. This content can be updated at any time. +After opening a Windows Registry file, the content is shown. This content can be updated at any time. -On the other side there is a visual tree representation of the registry keys listed in the file. This visual tree will be automatically updated on each file content change inside the app. +On the other side there is a visual tree representation of the registry keys listed in the file. This visual tree will be updated on each file content change inside the app. Select a registry key in the visual tree to see the values of that registry key below it. @@ -37,6 +37,6 @@ Select **Edit** to open the file in Notepad. Select **Reload** to reload file content in case the file is changed outside of the Registry Preview. -Select **Write to registry** to save any changes listed in the Preview to the Windows Registry. The Windows Registry Editor will ask for confirmation before writing data. +Select **Write to registry** to save the data listed in the Preview to the Windows Registry. The Windows Registry Editor will ask for confirmation before writing data. Select **Open key** to open the Windows Registry Editor with the location of the key you have highlighted in the treeview as the initial starting point. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/run.md b/hub/powertoys/run.md index d47b5481ad..b137b5ee4c 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/run.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/run.md @@ -47,14 +47,14 @@ The following general options are available on the PowerToys Run settings page. | Immediate plugins | How many milliseconds a plugin that makes the UI wait should wait before showing results | | Background execution plugins | How many milliseconds a plugin that executes in the background should wait before showing results | | Maximum number of results before scrolling | Maximum number of results shown without scrolling | -| Clear the previous query on launch | When opened, previous searches will not be highlighted | +| Clear the previous query on opening | When opened, previous searches will not be highlighted | | Results order tuning | Fine tunes the ordering of the displayed results | | Selected item weight | Use a higher number to get selected results to rise faster (Default: 5, 0 to disable) | | Wait for slower plugin results before selecting top item in results | Selecting this can help preselect the top, more relevant result, but at the risk of jumpiness | | Tab through context buttons | When enabled, you can tab through the context buttons before tabbing to the next result | -| Generate thumbnails for files | When enabled, thumbnails will be generated for files in the results list (Disabling this can increase speed and stability) | +| Generate thumbnails for files | Thumbnails will be generated for files in the results list (this may affect speed and stability) | | Preferred monitor position | If multiple displays are in use, PowerToys Run can be opened on:
• Primary display
• Display with mouse cursor
• Display with focused window | -| App theme | Change the color theme used by PowerToys Run | +| App theme | Change the theme used by PowerToys Run | ### Plugin manager @@ -71,7 +71,7 @@ The plugins can be activated with a direct activation command so that PowerToys > You can change commands to fit your personal needs in the [plugin manager](#plugin-manager). > [!IMPORTANT] -> Some characters and phrases may conflict with global queries of other plugins if you use them as activation commands. For example, using `(` breaks global calculation queries starting with an opening brace. +> Some characters and phrases may conflict with global queries of other plugins if you use them as activation commands. For example, using `(` breaks global calculation queries starting with an opening parenthesis. > > Currently known conflicting character sequences: > @@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ The plugins can be activated with a direct activation command so that PowerToys | URI-handler | `//` | `//` to open your default browser.
`// learn.microsoft.com` to have your default browser go to Microsoft Learn.
`mailto:` and `ms-settings:` links are supported. | | Visual Studio Code | `{` | `{ powertoys` to search for previously opened workspaces, remote machines and containers that contain 'powertoys' in their paths. | | Web search | `??` | `??` to open your default browser's search page.
`?? What is the answer to life` to search with your default browser's search engine. | -| [Windows settings](#windows-settings-plugin) | `$` | `$ Add/Remove Programs` to open the Windows settings page for managing installed programs.
`$ Device:` to list all settings with 'device' in their area/category name.
`$ control>system>admin` shows all settings of the path 'Control Panel > System and Security > Administrative Tools'. | +| [Windows settings](#windows-settings-plugin) | `$` | `$ Add/Remove Programs` to open the Windows settings page for managing installed apps.
`$ Device:` to list all settings with 'device' in their area/category name.
`$ control>system>admin` shows all settings of the path 'Control Panel > System and Security > Administrative Tools'. | | Windows Terminal profiles | `_` | `_ powershell` to list all profiles that contains 'powershell' in their name. | | [Window Walker](#window-walker-plugin) | `<` | `< outlook` to find all open windows that contain 'outlook' in their name or the name of their process. | @@ -137,7 +137,7 @@ _*) This command may take some time to provide the results._ ### Program plugin -The **Program** plugin can open software applications (such as Win32 or packaged programs). The plugin works by scanning common install locations, like the start menu and desktops that you have access to, looking for executable files (.exe) or shortcut files (such as .lnk or .url). +The **Program** plugin can open software applications (such as Win32 or packaged programs). The plugin scans common install locations, like the Start menu and desktops that you have access to, looking for executable files (.exe) or shortcut files (such as .lnk or .url). On occasion, a program may not be found by the program plugin scan and you may want to manually create a shortcut in the directory containing the program you want to access. #### Program parameters @@ -156,11 +156,11 @@ For example, when opening Visual Studio Code, specify the folder to be opened wi `Visual Studio Code -- C:\myFolder` -Visual Studio Code also supports a set of [command line parameters](https://code.visualstudio.com/docs/editor/command-line), which can be utilized with their corresponding arguments in PowerToys Run to, for instance, view the difference between files: +Visual Studio Code also supports a set of [command line parameters](https://code.visualstudio.com/docs/editor/command-line), which can be used with their corresponding arguments in PowerToys Run to, for instance, view the difference between files: `Visual Studio Code -d C:\foo.txt C:\bar.txt` -If the program plugin's option "Include in global result" is not selected, include the activation phrase, `.` by default, to invoke the plugin's behavior: +If the program plugin's option **Include in global result** is not selected, include the activation phrase, `.` by default, to invoke the plugin's behavior: `.Visual Studio Code -- C:\myFolder` @@ -226,7 +226,7 @@ The History plugin allows quick access to previously selected results from other The Time and date plugin provides the current time and date or a custom one in different formats. You can enter the format or a custom time/date or both when searching. -> [!NOTE] +> [!IMPORTANT] > The Time and Date plugin respects the date and time format settings of your system. Please be aware of the different notations in different locals. > [!IMPORTANT] @@ -241,8 +241,8 @@ Examples: ### Unit converter plugin -> [!NOTE] -> The Unit Converter plugin respects the number format settings of your system. Please be aware of the different decimal and thousand delimiters in different locals. The names and abbreviations of the units aren't localized yet. +> [!IMPORTANT] +> The Unit Converter plugin respects the number format settings of your system. Please be aware of the different decimal characters and thousands delimiters in different locals. The names and abbreviations of the units aren't localized yet. The Unit Converter plugin supports the following unit types: @@ -368,7 +368,7 @@ In the Folder plugin you can filter the results by using some special characters ### Windows Settings plugin -The Windows Settings plugin allows you to search for Windows settings. You can search the settings by their name or by their location. +The Windows Settings plugin allows you to search in Windows settings. You can search by their name or by their location. To search by location you can use the following syntax: @@ -415,7 +415,7 @@ You can turn off the message in the PowerToys Run plugin manager options for Win ### Windows Search plugin -With the Windows Search plugin you can search for files and folders that are index by the **Windows Search Index** service. +With the Windows Search plugin you can search for files and folders that are indexed by the **Windows Search Index** service. #### Windows Search settings diff --git a/hub/powertoys/screen-ruler.md b/hub/powertoys/screen-ruler.md index cd1b29eb01..bc237889a7 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/screen-ruler.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/screen-ruler.md @@ -10,18 +10,18 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, Screen ruler, Win] ![Screen ruler utility](../images/pt-screen-ruler.png) -Screen ruler allows you to quickly measure pixels on your screen based on image edge detection. This was inspired by [Pete Blois's Rooler](https://github.com/peteblois/rooler). +Screen ruler allows you to quickly measure pixels on your screen, based on image edge detection. This was inspired by [Pete Blois's Rooler](https://github.com/peteblois/rooler). ## How to activate -Press ⊞ Win+Shift+M to activate and then select which tool you want to measure with. To exit, press Esc or select ╳ in the toolbar. +Use ⊞ Win+Shift+M to activate and select which tool you want to measure with. To close, use Esc or select ╳ in the toolbar. ## How to use - Bounds (dashed square symbol): This is a bounding box. Click and drag with your mouse. If you hold Shift, the box(es) will stay in place until you cancel the interaction. -- Spacing (╋): This will measure horizontal and vertical spacing at the same time. Select the symbol and move your mouse to your target location. -- Horizontal (━): This will measure only horizontal spacing. Select the symbol and move your mouse pointer to your target location. -- Vertical (┃): This will measure only vertical spacing. Select the symbol and move your mouse pointer to your target location. +- Spacing (╋): Measure horizontal and vertical spacing at the same time. Select the symbol and move your mouse to your target location. +- Horizontal (━): Measure only horizontal spacing. Select the symbol and move your mouse pointer to your target location. +- Vertical (┃): Measure only vertical spacing. Select the symbol and move your mouse pointer to your target location. - Cancel interaction: Esc, ╳ or mouse click. Upon clicking the primary mouse button, the measurement is copied to the clipboard. The controls on the toolbar can also be selected via Ctrl+1/2/3/4. diff --git a/hub/powertoys/shortcut-guide.md b/hub/powertoys/shortcut-guide.md index 83475dc47d..aa56cd8536 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/shortcut-guide.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/shortcut-guide.md @@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ no-loc: [PowerToys, Windows, File Explorer] # Windows key shortcut guide -This guide uses PowerToys to display common keyboard shortcuts that use the Windows key. +This guide displays common keyboard shortcuts that use the Windows key. ## Getting started @@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ These configurations can be edited from the PowerToys Settings: | Activation method | Choose your own shortcut or use the ⊞ Win key | | Activation shortcut | The custom shortcut used to open the shortcut guide | | Press duration | Time (in milliseconds) to hold down the ⊞ Win key in order to open global Windows shortcuts or taskbar icon shortcuts | -| App theme | Light, dark or Windows theme | +| App theme | **Light**, **Dark** or **Windows theme** | | Opacity of background | Opacity of the Shortcut Guide overlay | | Excluded apps | Ignores Shortcut Guide when these apps are in focus. Add an application's name, or part of the name, one per line (e.g. adding `Notepad` will match both `Notepad.exe` and `Notepad++.exe`; to match only `Notepad.exe` add the `.exe` extension). | diff --git a/hub/powertoys/text-extractor.md b/hub/powertoys/text-extractor.md index 8ee175366b..74f07d3a6e 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/text-extractor.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/text-extractor.md @@ -16,11 +16,11 @@ With the activation shortcut (default: ⊞ Win+Shift+ ## How to deactivate -Capture mode is deactivated immediately after text in the selected region is recognized and copied to the clipboard. Exit capture mode with Esc at any moment. +Capture mode is closed immediately after text in the selected region is recognized and copied to the clipboard. Close capture mode with Esc at any moment. ## Adjust while trying to capture -By holding Shift, you will change from adjusting the capture region's size to moving the capture region. When you release Shift, you will be able to resize again. +By holding Shift, you change from adjusting the capture region's size to moving the capture region. When you release Shift, you will be able to resize again. > [!IMPORTANT] > diff --git a/hub/powertoys/video-conference-mute.md b/hub/powertoys/video-conference-mute.md index b28f2ddca7..b4339a84a4 100644 --- a/hub/powertoys/video-conference-mute.md +++ b/hub/powertoys/video-conference-mute.md @@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ The default shortcuts to use Video Conference Mute are: - ⊞ Win+Shift+I to toggle microphone until key release - ⊞ Win+Shift+O to toggle camera -When using the microphone and/or camera toggle shortcut keys, you'll see a small toolbar letting you know whether your microphone and camera are set to on, off, or not in use. Set the position of this toolbar in the Video Conference Mute tab of PowerToys settings. +When using the microphone and/or camera toggle shortcut keys, you'll see a small toolbar letting you know whether your microphone and camera are set to on, off, or not in use. Set the position of this toolbar in PowerToys settings. ![Audio and Video mute notification screenshot](../images/pt-video-audio-mute-notification.png) @@ -33,7 +33,7 @@ To use this module, it must be selected as the _source_ in the apps that are usi ## Settings -The Video Conference Mute page in Settings provides the following options: +The settings provide the following options: | Setting | Description | | :--- | :--- |