Commonly Used Shortcut Keys in Windows OS
Commonly Used Shortcut Keys in Windows OS – Without a doubt, using shortcut keys is the simplest approach to do computer activities because they increase productivity and efficiency regardless of your field of expertise.
It would be difficult to list all of the shortcut keys available for Windows, as there are many built-in shortcuts and third-party programs can also create their own shortcuts. However, some common shortcut keys that are available in most versions of Windows include:
- Windows key + E: opens File Explorer
- Windows key + R: opens the Run dialog box
- Windows key + D: minimizes all open windows and shows the desktop
- Windows key + L: locks the computer
- Windows key + Tab: opens the Task View, which allows you to switch between open windows
- Windows key + P: opens the Project screen, which allows you to choose how to display your screen on external displays
- Windows key + T: cycles through open windows on the taskbar
- Windows key + X: opens the Quick Link menu, which provides access to various system tools and settings
- Windows key + I: opens the Settings app
- Windows key + Shift + S: opens the Snipping tool to take screenshots
- Windows key + Ctrl + D: creates a new virtual desktop
- Windows key + Ctrl + Right Arrow: switch to the next virtual desktop
- Windows key + Ctrl + Left Arrow: switch to the previous virtual desktop
- Windows key + Ctrl + F4: closes the current virtual desktop
- Windows key + Alt + Tab: opens the Task View and allows you to switch between open windows, but also shows all the virtual desktops.
- Ctrl + Alt + Del: opens the Security screen, which allows you to lock the computer, switch users, or open the Task Manager
- Ctrl + C: copies selected text or files
- Ctrl + V: pastes copied text or files
- Ctrl + Z: undo the last action
- Ctrl + A: select all items in a document or window
- Alt + F4: closes the current window
- Ctrl + Shift + N: creates a new folder in File Explorer
- Alt + Enter: opens the properties of the selected item in File Explorer
- Windows key + Shift + Left/Right arrow: move a window from one monitor to another
- Windows key + Up arrow: Maximize the current window
- Windows key + Down arrow: Minimize the current window or restore it if it’s maximized
- Windows key + +: open the Magnifier tool
- Windows key + – : zoom out using the Magnifier tool
- Windows key + Esc: Close the Magnifier tool
- Windows key + Print Screen: take a screenshot and save it to the Screenshots folder
- Windows key + Alt + Print Screen: take a screenshot of the current window and save it to the Screenshots folder
- Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + B: restart the graphics driver if the screen goes black
- Windows key + Pause: opens the System Properties window
- Windows key + Spacebar: switch between input languages and
keyboard layouts
These are just some examples of the many shortcut keys available in Windows, and some of the keys may not work or be available in certain versions of windows or software. Keep in mind that you can also create your own shortcut keys using the settings.
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Why You Should Use Shortcut Keys
There are several reasons why you should use shortcut keys to do your work:
- Efficiency: Shortcut keys can save you time by allowing you to perform common tasks quickly and easily without having to navigate through menus or use a mouse.
- Productivity: By using shortcut keys, you can switch between tasks and programs more quickly, which can increase your productivity.
- Consistency: Using shortcut keys can help you develop a consistent workflow, which can make it easier to repeat tasks and processes.
- Reduced Mouse Use: By using shortcut keys, you can minimize the use of your mouse, which can help reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Customization: You can create your own shortcut keys to fit your specific needs and preferences, which can make your work more personalized and efficient.
- Flexibility: Shortcut keys are not limited to specific programs or applications, they can be used across different software, allowing you to work faster and more seamlessly.
Overall, using shortcut keys can help you work more efficiently, productively, and comfortably, which can ultimately help you get more done in less time.
