Tag Archives: #Windows10

Helpful Window + shortcuts

First off, we must be aware that Windows versions will have different results for the same window key combinations, so be cognizant of that.

Finding the tool we need to perform our task is essential to our success, and these window key shortcuts can allow you to achieve excellence while on any user’s Windows PC.

So without further ado

Windows key combinations, also known as keyboard shortcuts, are a set of key combinations that perform various functions in the Microsoft Windows operating system. Here’s a brief summary of some commonly used Windows key combinations and their purposes:

  1. Windows Key (🪟): Opens or closes the Start menu.
  2. Windows Key + D: Minimizes or restores all open windows, showing the desktop.
  3. Windows Key + E: Opens File Explorer, providing quick access to file management.
  4. Windows Key + L: Locks the computer, requiring a password or other authentication to unlock.
  5. Windows Key + R: Opens the Run dialog box, allowing users to quickly run commands or launch applications.
  6. Windows Key + I: Opens the Settings menu, providing access to various system settings.
  7. Windows Key + Tab: Activates Task View, allowing users to switch between open applications and virtual desktops.
  8. Windows Key + Print Screen: Takes a screenshot and saves it to the Screenshots folder in the Pictures library.
  9. Windows Key + Arrow Keys: Snaps or moves the active window to different positions on the screen.
  10. Windows Key + Number (1-9): Opens or switches to the application pinned to the taskbar at the corresponding position.
  11. Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Opens the Task Manager for managing running processes and applications.
  12. Alt + Tab: Switches between open applications.
  13. Windows Key + Shift + S: opens up the Snipping Tool and allows you to screen snip and save anything displayed.
  14. Windows Key + V: opens up a new window that can access to the history of things you have copied and in Windows 11 gives access to gifs, emojis, and mathematical symbols.
  15. Windows Key + X: opens the power user menu where you can access the admin tools and various settings.
  16. Windows Key + U: opens the Ease of Access Center this allows quick access to the accessibility features.
  17. Windows Key + (+) or (-): opens the magnifier tool.
  18. Windows Key + Alt + R: will start or stop recording your screen.
  19. Windows Key + S: opens the search bar.

While many Windows key combinations are consistent across different versions of the Windows operating system, there can be some variations or additional shortcuts introduced in newer versions. Here are some key combinations that may differ or have variations across Windows operating systems:

Windows 10:

  1. Virtual Desktops: Windows Key + Ctrl + D creates a new virtual desktop, and Windows Key + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow switches between virtual desktops.
  2. Cortana: Windows Key + S activates Cortana for voice commands and searches.

Windows 11:

  1. Centered Start Menu: The Start menu has a centered design in Windows 11, but the key to open it remains Windows Key.
  2. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: Windows 11 introduces new features for organizing and snapping windows, accessed through the Snap Assist feature with the Windows Key + Z.

These key combinations enhance productivity, streamline navigation, and provide quick access to various features in the Windows operating system. Users can customize or explore additional key combinations based on their preferences and workflow.

Print this off, especially if you only have one mouse or cursor input, so if it fails, you can still use your PC to its fullest without unnecessary added time trying to navigate with your keyboard.

link to Microsoft speaking of the Window + Shortcuts