Which of these Windows shortcuts do you know?

by | Sep 29, 2023 | News

Keyboard shortcuts are a powerful way to boost your productivity and efficiency when using Windows 10 and Windows 11. These shortcuts help you navigate your operating system, open applications, manage files, and perform various tasks with ease.

Whether you’re a novice user or a seasoned pro, mastering these shortcuts can significantly enhance your computing experience.

Getting Started with Keyboard Shortcuts

Before diving into the list of shortcut keys, let’s review some basics:

Windows Key (Win Key):

The Windows key, denoted as “Win” in shortcut combinations, is a key found on most modern keyboards and is essential for many shortcuts.

Key Combinations:

Shortcut keys are usually combinations of the Windows key (Win) and one or more other keys (e.g., Ctrl, Alt, Shift). When we list a shortcut key, it will be represented as “Win + [Key(s)]”.

 

Popular Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows 10 and 11

  1. Win + D: Show or hide the desktop.
  2. Win + E: Open File Explorer.
  3. Win + L: Lock your computer.
  4. Win + Tab: Activate Task View for virtual desktops.
  5. Alt + Tab: Switch between open applications.
  6. Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open Task Manager directly.
  7. Win + I: Open Settings.
  8. Win + S: Open Cortana/Search (Windows 10) or Search (Windows 11).
  9. Win + X: Open the Quick Link menu.
  10. Win + PrtScn: Capture a screenshot and save it to your Pictures folder or Win + Shift + S (Windows 11) to capture a screenshot and open the Snip & Sketch tool.

Advanced Shortcuts

For power users and those looking to delve deeper into keyboard shortcuts, here are a few advanced ones:

  1. Win + 1, 2, 3, etc.: Open or switch to applications on the taskbar based on their position (e.g., Win + 1 for the first app).
  2. Win + Ctrl + D: Create a new virtual desktop.
  3. Win + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow: Switch between virtual desktops.
  4. Win + Arrow Keys: Snap windows to various positions on your screen.
  5. Win + Plus (+) or Win + Minus (-): Open Magnifier and zoom in/out.

Office Shortcuts Keys

You can even open Office applications with shortcuts

Try Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Win to open the Microsoft 365 app

Try the same Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Win + W for Word, or + X for Excel, P for PowerPoint, O for Outlook, N for Notes, T for Teams or even L for LinkedIn

 

Keyboard shortcuts are a valuable tool for Windows users, allowing you to navigate your operating system swiftly and efficiently. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, mastering these shortcuts can save you time and streamline your workflow.