When working with several open programs in Windows XP, you can group them to cascade, tile, minimize, or close all programs at the same time.

1. Click the items on the taskbar while holding down the CTRL key.
2. After the items are highlighted, right-click any one, and the group options are displayed on the shortcut menu: Cascade, Tile Horizontally, Tile Vertically, Minimize Group, and Close Group.

You can also shut down applications as a group by using Task Manager:

1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to open Windows Task Manager.
2. On the Applications tab, press and hold the CTRL key while selecting multiple applications, and then click End Task.


Source
Daniel Rey
www.microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/tips/july02/rey1.asp