Often while helping clients with their computers I am asked “How did you do that?” This usually happens when I use a Keyboard Shortcut that saves me from having to use the mouse to click on something to get something done.
These shortcuts are done by holding an Operator key (typically the Windows or Control Key) and striking one other key then releasing the Operator key.
Below is a partial list, which will save you some time if you learn them.
Keyboard shortcut Action
Windows key Open or close Start Menu.
Windows key + D Display and hide the desktop.
Windows key + E Open File Explorer.
Windows key + I Open Settings.
Windows key + L Lock your PC or switch accounts.
Windows key + S Open Search.
Windows key + PrtScn Capture a screenshot and save in Screenshots folder.
Windows key + “+” key Zoom in using the magnifier.
Windows key + “-” key Zoom out using the magnifier.
Ctrl + Shift + Esc Open Task Manager.
Alt + Tab Switch between open apps.
Ctrl + P Print
Ctrl + C Copy selected items to clipboard.
Ctrl + X Cut selected items.
Ctrl + V Paste content from clipboard.
Ctrl + A Select all content.
Ctrl + Z Undo an action.
Ctrl + Y Redo an action.
Ctrl + Esc Open the Start Menu.
Ctrl + F4 Close the active window.
There are also many for Mac users. Several of them you can simply replace the Windows key with the Command key on the Mac. Two of my favorites are Command + Q to quit an application, and Command + W to close a window without quitting. If you would like a Mac list, just shoot me an email.