Top Computer Keyboard Shortcuts to Save Time and Boost Productivity

With each move to grab the mouse to copy text, switch between windows, and find files, you are making your process longer. There are some basics of using computer keyboard shortcuts that will help you with this.

Start with the commands you use most often. This tutorial will cover Windows PCs, Microsoft Word, and commonly used web browsers.

To use the keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl +C, press and hold Ctrl, then press C, then let go of both keys. 

1. Copy, Paste, and Correct Mistakes

These basic keyboard shortcuts handle everyday editing tasks:

Shortcut

What it does

Ctrl+C

Copy the text or item you select.

Ctrl+X

Cut the text or item you select.

Ctrl+V

Paste your clipboard content.

Ctrl+Z

Undo your previous action when the app supports it.

Ctrl+A

Select everything in the active document, folder, or text field.

For example, select a sentence, press Ctrl+X, move your cursor, and press Ctrl+V to place it elsewhere. Practise these common keyboard shortcuts until you can use them without checking a list.

2. Save and Format Your Writing

Use these computer shortcut keys while working in Word:

Shortcut

What it does

Ctrl+S

Save your document.

Ctrl+B

Add or remove bold formatting.

Ctrl+I

Add or remove italics.

Ctrl+U

Add or remove underlining.

Ctrl+Home

Move to the beginning of your document.

Ctrl+End

Move to the end of your document.

Select your text before changing its formatting. Press Ctrl+S regularly as you write, especially after an important change.

3. Browse and Find Information Faster

Try these time-saving keyboard shortcuts in Chrome or Edge:

Shortcut

What it does

Ctrl+T

Open a new tab.

Ctrl+W

Close the current tab.

Ctrl+Shift+T

Reopen a tab you recently closed.

Ctrl+Tab

Move to the next tab.

Ctrl+L

Select the address bar.

Ctrl+F

Find a word or phrase on the current page.

Need to find a delivery date on a long page? Press Ctrl+F and search for “delivery.” Use Ctrl+L when you want to enter a new address or search term.

4. Switch Apps and Arrange Your Screen

These Windows keyboard shortcuts help you move between tasks:

Shortcut

What it does

Alt+Tab

Switch between open windows.

Windows+D

Show or hide the desktop.

Windows+Left Arrow

Snap the active window to the left.

Windows+Right Arrow

Snap the active window to the right.

Windows+L

Lock your computer.

Use these PC keyboard shortcuts when you compare documents or follow instructions. Place a reference page on one side and your work on the other to keep both visible.

5. Open and Organise Files

Add these useful computer shortcuts to your filing routine:

Shortcut

What it does

Windows+E

Open File Explorer.

F2

Rename the file or folder you select.

Ctrl+Shift+N

Create a new folder in File Explorer.

Create a folder for each project and give files clear names. For example, “October Invoice” tells you more than “Document 7.”

6. Reuse Text and Capture Screenshots

There are two shortcuts for productivity through the use of the keyboard:

Clipboard history is helpful when there is a need to use some text repeatedly. Screenshots are helpful when there is a need to show an error or a change.

Start With Three Commands Today

Select appropriate keyboard shortcuts that suit your daily routine. First try out three shortcuts and then move on to more shortcuts with increased confidence.

In case your shortcut fails to perform, make sure which window is selected and whether it is supported by your application or not. With constant practice, computer keyboard shortcuts can aid in accomplishing tasks with less clicking and disruption.


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