Title bar

The title bar is a bar located at the top of a window or a dialog box that displays the name of the window or software program being used. For example, in the picture below, the title bar displays the name of the program (Textpad) and document (Document1) currently being edited.

Besides giving a description of the open program or window, the title bar may also contain other useful features that depend on the operating system and program showing the title bar.

Tip: If you are using Microsoft Windows 8 and the title bar is missing, move the mouse or your finger to the top of the screen to show the hidden title bar.

Basic features of the title bar

As illustrated in the above picture, the title bar typically has a minimize, maximize, andclose button, usually located on the right side. Also, in the top-left corner of a Microsoft Windows program window, there is typically an icon of the program that can be clicked to also show these options.

Tip: In Microsoft Windows, pressing Alt + Spacebarshows you the window menu options as shown in the picture. Using this keyboard shortcut allows you to perform any of the title bar options without using a mouse.

Extra features and functions of a title bar

Below is a list of some of the functions of the title bar. Keep in mind that not all of these are available in all operating systems and programs.

Click and hold down the mouse button on the title bar to move the window.
Double-click the title bar to maximize the window or set the window into window mode.
Windows 7 introduced side-by-side that allows you to click and drag the title bar to any edge of the screen and attach the window to that portion of the screen.