How to Configure Linux Mint Workspaces [Quick Guide 2024]

Written By Steven Arends

Have you ever wondered when you can’t manage your workspace in Linux Mint? It’s frustrating whenever you open multiple applications in the default primary workplace and can’t control it, right?

Only the true masters of productivity know the true power of Workspace. Workspace will be your faithful companion when you optimize your precious screen space without using a second screen.

how-to-configure -linux-mint-workspaces

When I was a newbie to Linux Mint, I had experienced these circumstances before. If you have faced those situations, relax. This article will help you to solve your problem.

This post will show you the most proper and effortless way to configure workspaces. Just read till the end and precisely follow the instructions to understand how to configure and switch your workspace in Linux Mint.

Let’s get started without further ado.

How to Configure Workspaces on Linux Mint

One of the fantastic features of your Linux Mint is Workspace. Workspace looks like a second monitor that helps you use multiple virtual desktops.

Workspaces are designed to make managing and keeping your tasks more manageable. They can be handy if you want to manage your work in one workspace window but don’t have space for all of them in one workspace.

In Linux Mint, each workspace is entirely different from other workspaces. Workspaces are useful when you need to control and manage multiple windows.

You can manage your workspace configuration from the Workspace setting window. To open the Workspace setting window,  press the super key (Windows key) to open the System menu window, type workspace, and hit the Enter key.workspace-search-bar

When you open the Workspace setting window, the first option is labeled Enable workspace OSD at the top of the window. This option notifies you of which workspace you currently use while switching one window to another.

The second option in the Workspace setting window is Allow Cycling through workspaces. This option allows users to switch between the four default workspaces using the Ctrl+Alt+Left Arrow key and the Ctrl+Alt + Right Arrow key on your keyboard.

By default, this option is disabled in the Linux Mint. If you want to switch one workspace to another using the keyboard shortcut, you must enable the option.

The next option is “Only use workspaces on the primary monitor.” This option indicates the multi-monitor setting. It allows you to use the workspaces only on your primary monitor. You can’t use workspaces on your second monitor.

You must enable the option whenever you want to use workspace only on your primary monitor.

Display Expo view as a grid is another great feature to view your workspace as a grid view using the Ctrl+Alt+UP from your keyboard. Enable this option if you want to view your workspace as a grid view.

In the Workspace setting window, Invert the left and right arrow key directions used to shirt workspaces during a window drag is the final option.

Enabling this option allows you to change direction through workspaces when you click and drag a window and press the arrow keys.press-the-arrow-keys

How to Switch to a New Workspace on Linux Mint

Workspace is a great feature to manage and control multiple windows effortlessly. This feature helps users increase work efficiency and productivity without using the multiple monitor setup.

If you are willing to set up a multi-monitor PC to boost your productivity, you can try to use the workspace feature on Linux Mint before buying the second monitor.

Do you want to switch/move to a new workspace on Linux Mint?

You can use the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl+Alt+Left arrow or Ctrl+Alt+Right arrow key for switching to another workspace.

In Linux Mint, you can smoothly move a window from one workspace to another. If you want to move a window from one workspace to another or have the same window visible in several workspaces, you must follow the steps below.

Here are the steps to switch/move your window from one workspace to another workspace:

  • Right-click on the top bar of the window.
  • Select Move to Another Workspace.
  • Choose the workspace on the list where you want to move the window.
  • Select the Always on Visible Workspace radio button to make it visible on all workspaces.always-on-visible-workspace

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Linux Mint have workspaces?

Yes, Linux Mint has workspaces. You can use the Workspaces in Linux Mint to use several virtual desktops. The workspace helps you to handle multiple windows quickly and effortlessly.

How do I see all workspaces in Linux?

Go to the Overview of Activities. To see the open windows on the next workspace, click on the workspace partially displayed on the right-hand side of the current workspace.

To view the previous workspace, click the partially displayed workspace on the left-hand side of the currently selected workspace that is not the leftmost.

How do I switch between workspaces in Linux?

To switch between workspaces in Linux, you can use the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl+Alt+Left arrow or Ctrl+Alt+Right arrow key on your keyboard.

Also, check out our separate post on Can I Use Windows 11 Full Screen Start Menu

Conclusion

Workspaces in Linux Mint are a valuable feature that allows you to use many virtual desktops. Workspaces are designed to resemble a multi-monitor setup without the need for a second monitor.

However, after reading the post, now you know all about the workspace. You know how to configure and manage workspaces. You also know how to switch or move the workspace on your Linux mint.

That’s all for now, folks. I hope you enjoyed this post. If you find this post helpful, share it with your friends.

See you next one. Have a good day.

About The Author
Steven Arends is a computer science graduate and tech enthusiast with over 10 years of experience in the field. He has a vast collection of computer hardware and loves exploring the latest advancements. As a contributing author to 10Scopes, Steven shares his expertise to make the world of technology more accessible and easier to understand for all readers.

Leave a Comment