What Are Ubuntu Workspaces?
Ubuntu offers a built-in multiple desktops feature, called Ubuntu Workspaces, that allows users to manage windows across different virtual desktops. Instead of cluttering a single screen with multiple applications, workspaces help you separate tasks efficiently—ideal for multitasking, organizing work, and improving focus.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to enable, switch, and manage Ubuntu workspaces with keyboard shortcuts and advanced settings.
How to Enable and Use Ubuntu Workspaces
1. Switch Between Workspaces with Shortcuts
The easiest way to navigate Ubuntu multiple desktops is through keyboard shortcuts:
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Switch to Next Workspace | Ctrl + Alt + Right Arrow |
| Switch to Previous Workspace | Ctrl + Alt + Left Arrow |
| Move Window to Next Workspace | Shift + Ctrl + Alt + Right Arrow |
| Move Window to Previous Workspace | Shift + Ctrl + Alt + Left Arrow |
📌 Tip: If these shortcuts don’t work, check Settings → Keyboard → Workspaces to enable them.
2. Enable Workspaces in Ubuntu Settings
- Open Settings (
Win + I). - Go to “Multitasking” → “Workspaces”.
- Toggle on “Dynamic Workspaces” to automatically add new workspaces when needed.
📌 Tip: You can also set a fixed number of workspaces if you prefer a structured workflow.
3. Switch Workspaces Using the Activities Overview
- Press
Super (Win)to open the Activities Overview. - Move your cursor to the right side to see all workspaces.
- Click on a workspace to switch or drag windows between them.
📌 Tip: The Super key is usually the Windows key on most keyboards.
Customizing Ubuntu Workspaces
| Customization | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Change Number of Workspaces | Go to Settings → Multitasking → Workspaces |
| Change Shortcut Keys | Settings → Keyboard → Customize Shortcuts |
| Use Workspaces on Multiple Displays | Enable “Workspaces on all displays” in Settings |
📌 Tip: If you use multiple monitors, you can configure workspaces to extend across all displays or only the primary screen.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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