How to Clear the Recommended Section in the Windows 11 Start Menu
The Recommended section in the Windows 11 Start menu shows a list of your recently opened files, newly installed apps, and cloud documents right at the bottom of the menu. This feature uses your PC activity history to guess what you want to open next.
You can turn off these suggestions in your Windows settings to keep your Start menu clean and private. Clearing this area stops Windows from showing your latest app activity and recent files in plain sight.
Turn off recommendations in Settings under Personalization Start. Select “More pins” for the layout and disable options for showing recently added apps, opened items, and general tips. This keeps the Recommended section empty.
What Is the Start Menu Made Of?
The Windows 11 Start menu has three main parts: Pinned apps you pick to keep handy, All apps showing every program you have, and the Recommended section. The Recommended part shows files, apps, and websites you’ve used recently.
- Pinned – apps you choose to keep handy
- All apps – a list of all your installed programs
- Recommended – shows your recently added apps, files, and websites
Steps to Clear the Recommended Section
- Open Settings . Press
Win + Ion your keyboard. - Go to Personalization. Click on Personalization on the left side menu. Then click Start on the right.
To clear the recommended section in Windows 11, you first open Settings . You can do this by pressing the Win and the ‘I’ key on your keyboard at the same time. Then, click on Personalization in the left menu, and choose Start on the right side.
Windows 11 Personalization settings for Start menu size options. - Change the layout. Under Layout, select More pins. This will make the Recommended section smaller.
Windows 11 Start menu toggles to clear Recommended section - Turn off the options. Click the switches to turn Off these three options:
- Show recently added apps
- Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer
- Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more
Disable recently added apps and recommendations Windows 11 - Close Settings. Close the Settings window when you are done.
What Happens When You're Done?
Want to Learn More?
If you want to learn more about customizing the Windows 11 Start menu, you can visit the official Microsoft guide here: Customize the Windows 11 Start Menu.
Summary
- Open Settings and go to Personalization > Start
- Set the layout to More pins to shrink the Recommended area
- Turn off all the options to stop showing recent apps, files, websites, and tips
- Enjoy a fresh, clean Start menu without distractions
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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