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The Calculator app is a handy tool in Windows 11 for quick math tasks. Sometimes, users face an issue where the Calculator app won’t close properly. This can be frustrating, especially when you need to switch between apps or restart your computer.

This guide helps you fix the “Can’t Close Calculator App” error with simple, easy-to-follow solutions. Each step is explained in detail to ensure you understand why it is necessary.

By following these instructions, you can get your Calculator app working normally again without hassle. Let’s start troubleshooting!

Remember, patience is key when fixing app-related problems. Try each step carefully before moving on to the next.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into the fixes, here are a few quick checks to perform:

• Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes app issues are fixed with system updates.
• Check if the Calculator app is responding or frozen. You can do this by trying to interact with it or using Task Manager.
• Have a backup of important files, just in case you need to reset or reinstall apps.

Step 1: Force Close the Calculator App Using Task Manager

The easiest way to close a stuck app is through the Task Manager. This tool lets you end unresponsive apps manually.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Task Manager.
2. In the Processes tab, look for Calculator or Calculator App.
3. Click on it to select, then click End Task at the bottom right.
4. Wait a few seconds and try reopening or closing the Calculator app normally.

Why this helps: Sometimes, the app freezes due to background processes. Task Manager forcibly ends these processes, allowing the app to close.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

If the Calculator app still won’t close, try restarting your PC.

1. Click the Start button and select Power.
2. Choose Restart from the options.
3. Wait for your computer to reboot and check if the issue persists.

Why this helps: Restarting clears temporary files and resets system processes, which often resolves app glitches.

Step 3: Reset the Calculator App

If the problem continues, resetting the app can fix corrupted settings or data.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Scroll down and find Calculator, then click the three dots next to it.
4. Select Advanced options.
5. Scroll down and click the Reset button.
6. Confirm when prompted. This will clear app data and restore it to default.

Why this helps: Resetting fixes issues caused by corrupted files or settings specific to the Calculator app.

Step 4: Reinstall the Calculator App

If resetting doesn’t work, reinstalling the app can replace any damaged files.

1. Open Start, type PowerShell, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
2. To uninstall the Calculator, type the following command and press Enter:

Get-AppxPackage *windowscalculator* | Remove-AppxPackage

3. Next, open the Microsoft Store app.
4. Search for Windows Calculator.
5. Click Install to reinstall the app.

Why this helps: Reinstalling ensures you have a fresh copy of the app, which can resolve deeper software issues.

Step 5: Run Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix problems with apps from the Microsoft Store.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter automatically detects common app issues and attempts to repair them.

Alternative Method: Check for System File Corruption

If the Calculator app still misbehaves, your system files might be corrupted. You can check and repair them using the System File Checker.

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
• Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

This scan may take some time. Once complete, it will repair any corrupted system files found.

Why this helps: Corrupted system files can interfere with app behavior, and fixing them helps restore normal function.

FAQs

Why won’t my Calculator app close?

The app may be frozen due to software glitches, corrupted files, or background processes that prevent it from closing normally.

Can I uninstall and reinstall the Calculator app safely?

Yes. The Calculator is a Microsoft Store app and can be safely uninstalled and reinstalled without affecting your system.

Will resetting the app delete my data?

Resetting the Calculator app clears its data and settings but does not affect your personal files or other apps.

Is it necessary to update Windows to fix this issue?

Not always, but keeping Windows updated can prevent app errors caused by outdated system files or compatibility issues.

What if Task Manager doesn’t show the Calculator app?

The app might be running in the background invisibly. Restarting your PC usually clears such hidden processes.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still cannot close the Calculator app, consider the following options:

• Perform a Windows 11 system restore to a point before the issue started. This can undo recent changes causing the problem.
• Contact Microsoft Support for professional assistance: https://support.microsoft.com.
• Look for community help on forums such as Microsoft Answers or Reddit where similar problems are discussed.

Conclusion

Fixing the Calculator app that won’t close in Windows 11 is usually straightforward. Start with simple methods like using Task Manager or restarting your PC. If needed, reset or reinstall the app to fix deeper glitches.

Running the Windows Store troubleshooter and checking system files can also help ensure your system is healthy. By following this step-by-step guide, you can quickly restore the Calculator app to normal operation.

Remember, staying patient and methodical is key to troubleshooting any app issue effectively.