Table of Contents
Who this is for: Windows 8 tablet users who want to manage running applications and optimize their device performance.
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Touch Gestures for Closing Apps
The most intuitive way to close apps on your Windows 8 tablet is using touch gestures. Simply swipe down from the very top edge of your screen all the way to the bottom. You’ll see the app shrink as you drag it down, and when you reach the bottom, release your finger to close it completely.
Using the Task Manager Method
For a more traditional approach, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. You’ll see all running applications listed under the “Apps” section. Tap on the app you want to close, then hit the “End task” button. This method works particularly well when an app becomes unresponsive.
Alt + F4 Keyboard Shortcut
If you have a keyboard attached to your tablet, the classic Alt + F4 combination still works perfectly. Make sure the app you want to close is active on screen, then press these keys together. The app will shut down immediately.
App Switching and Closing
Swipe in from the left edge of your screen to see recently used apps. When you see the app you want to close in this switcher view, you can drag it down to close it, or simply swipe it off the screen to the right.
Why Some Apps Don’t Actually Close
Windows 8 uses a smart suspension system where many apps don’t truly “close” but instead go into a suspended state to save battery and improve performance. These suspended apps use minimal resources and will automatically close if your system needs more memory. However, the methods above will force apps to close completely when needed.
Whether you’re managing system resources or just prefer a clean slate, these techniques give you full control over your Windows 8 tablet experience, much like mastering the perfect timing in challenging puzzle games.
TL;DR
Close Windows 8 tablet apps by swiping down from top to bottom, using Alt + F4, or through Task Manager. Many apps suspend automatically to save battery rather than fully closing.
