Streamlining the Right-Click Context Menu in Windows 11

If you’re a Windows 11 user, you may have noticed some changes to the right-click context menu that can be somewhat frustrating. The new design simplifies the options available, but if you’re someone who regularly utilizes the “Show more options” feature, having to click it repeatedly can disrupt your workflow. Fortunately, there is a way to enhance your experience by setting the context menu to always display in “Show more options” mode by default.

Why the Context Menu Doesn’t Meet Expectations

With the rollout of Windows 11, Microsoft made several cosmetic changes to the right-click context menu. While many users appreciate the cleaner look, others find the need to click “Show more options” every single time they want access to additional commands quite annoying. If you’re among those who prefer the traditional context menu layout, you’re not alone.

A Solution to Always Show More Options

For those who want to skip the extra step of clicking “Show more options” each time they right-click, you can modify your system’s settings. Below are some steps that can help you achieve this.

Steps to Modify the Context Menu

1. Open the Registry Editor: Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. Be cautious when navigating this tool, as it can affect system settings.

2. Navigate to the Right Key: Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.

3. Create a New Value: Right-click in the right pane, select New, and then choose DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this value Extended.

4. Adjust the Value Data: Double-click on the newly created Extended value and set it to 1.

5. Restart Your Computer: Reboot your system for the changes to take effect.

After following these steps, your right-click context menu should now default to the extended view, eliminating the extra click and making your tasks more efficient.

Conclusion

While Windows 11 offers a fresh take on the user interface, it’s natural to seek enhancements that align with your workflow. By adjusting the registry settings, you can tailor your experience to make the context menu more user-friendly. For those who prefer the classic layout, this small tweak can significantly streamline your daily tasks and improve overall productivity.