Changing the Default Window Size
One of the features of Windows is that you can use the ↔ and ↕ cursors to resize the window, and all subsequent windows for that program or folder type. In fact, when you resize one such window, you’re changing the default size for all future windows for that type of folder or program. Unfortunately, if you accidentally resized the window, or someone else did it, and the results are undesirable, unless you know how to adjust the dimensions of the window, you’re stuck with it. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to drag the window back into shape.
Adjusting the Window’s Height
Note that if a window is maximized or minimized, you can’t make size adjustments. Now, to change the height of the window, hover your mouse over the top or bottom border until the ↕ cursor appears. Click and drag the border to the desired height.
Adjusting the Window’s Width
The same technique is used to adjust the window’s width, only this time, you’ll hover over one of the side borders and wait for the horizontal ↔ cursor to appear. Click and drag the border to the desired width.
Changing the Window’s Height and Width Simultaneously
You can also adjust both height and width by hovering the mouse over any corner until a diagonal double arrow cursor appears. Click and drag until the window reaches the desired dimension.
Once you’ve resized the window, future occurrences for that folder or program type should open in the new size.
Other Considerations
When resizing windows, some windows, such as dialog boxes, are fixed sizes and cannot be changed. In addition, if the entire screen of your computer appears to be oversized, not just the windows, there’s a chance that the resolution has been changed. For example, choosing a lower resolution screen setting makes everything appear larger, including windows and dialog boxes. If you suspect that your screen’s resolution has been changed (some software programs often change the settings), you can right-click your desktop, choose Desktop Properties (or Personalize if you have Vista), and click Display Properties. Use the slider bar under “Resolution” to adjust the resolution to your preferred screen size.
Folder Options
Another trick that might work for you is to reset your Folder Options back to the default setting. Go to Control Panel > Folder Options > Restore Defaults. This changes the way your folders are displayed.
