Most computer monitors are wider than they are tall (Landscape orientation), which is perfect for watching movies and editing spreadsheets. However, if you are reading long PDF documents, writing code, or using a tablet-style PC, rotating your screen vertically (Portrait orientation) can dramatically improve your workflow.
Method 1: Using Windows Display Settings (Recommended)
This is the most reliable way to change your screen orientation in Windows 11.
- Right-click on any empty space on your Windows desktop.
- Select Display settings from the menu that appears.
- If you have multiple monitors connected, select the specific monitor you want to rotate from the diagram at the top.
- Scroll down to the “Scale & layout” section.
- Click the dropdown menu next to Display orientation.
- Choose your new orientation:
- Landscape: Standard horizontal view.
- Portrait: Vertical view (rotated 90 degrees).
- Landscape (flipped): Upside-down horizontal.
- Portrait (flipped): Vertical view facing the opposite direction.
- Your screen will instantly rotate. If it looks correct, click Keep changes within 15 seconds. If you made a mistake, simply don’t click anything and it will automatically revert back.
Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Depending on your graphics card (specifically older Intel drivers), you may be able to instantly rotate your screen using a secret keyboard combination. Note: This does not work on all modern Windows 11 PCs.
- Ctrl + Alt + Left/Right Arrow: Rotates the screen 90 degrees to the side.
- Ctrl + Alt + Down Arrow: Flips the screen upside down.
- Ctrl + Alt + Up Arrow: Returns the screen to standard Landscape mode.