If you use Task Manger frequently, you can keep it ready for quick use. Open the Task Manger by pressing Ctrl-Shift-Esc. Now choose Options, Hide When Minimized (see picture 1). Task Manager will remain active, but it won't take up much taskbar space-just a tiny little icon.

To use Task Manager, locate its tiny icon (a small bar graph display) in the right side of the taskbar near the time display and double click (see picture 2). You may also notice that you can move the mouse pointer over the icon and the tool tip will report CPU usage.

Picture 1

Picture 2