How to Connect Two Monitors in Windows 7

Connecting two monitors to your Windows 7 computer will allow you to review and work on documents using both screens, and can even help with ergonomics. Connecting two monitors can be accomplished by pressing a hotkey or modifying your...
Method 1 of 2:

Using a Hotkey

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    Verify that both monitors are plugged in to your Windows 7 computer. Most Windows computers support VGA or DVI-I cables, but you may need to purchase an adapter if your computer lacks the necessary built-in port.[1]
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    Power on your computer.
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    Press the Windows logo key and the letter 'P' at the same time. A series of monitor options will display on-screen.
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    Select one of the following options: 'Duplicate,' 'Extend,' or 'Projector only.' 'Duplicate' will display the same screen on both monitors, 'Extend' will allow you to navigate a full screen on both monitors, and 'Projector only' will show your screen only on the second monitor.[2]
Method 2 of 2:

Changing Screen Resolution Settings

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    Verify that both monitors are plugged in to your Windows 7 computer. Most Windows computers support VGA or DVI-I cables, but you may need to purchase an adapter if your computer lacks the necessary built-in port.
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    Power on your computer.
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    Right-click on your desktop and select 'Screen resolution.'
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    Click on the dropdown menu next to 'Multiple displays' in the Screen Resolution menu.
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    Select either 'Duplicate these displays' or 'Extend these displays.' The 'duplicate' option will display the same screen on both monitors, and the 'extend' option will allow you to navigate a full screen on both monitors.
    1. Select 'Show desktop only on 2' if you want to use only the second monitor for a presentation.
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