Essential Computer Short Keys You Should Know

Short keys boost productivity by letting you perform tasks faster. Common Windows shortcuts include:

Ctrl + P – Print
On macOS, use Command (⌘) instead of Ctrl (e.g., ⌘ + C to copy). These keys help you navigate, edit, and manage files quickly without relying on a mouse.

Ctrl + C – Copy

Ctrl + V – Paste

Ctrl + Z – Undo

Alt + Tab – Switch between open apps

Ctrl + S – Save

Why Learn Short Keys?

• Time Savings: Reduce repetitive mouse actions and complete tasks faster.
• Increased Productivity: Streamline your workflow and focus on what matters most.
• Ergonomic Benefits: Minimize strain from excessive mouse use.
• Enhanced Efficiency: Navigate and control applications with precision.

Mastering the Essentials: Short Keys Tables

Let’s dive into the core short keys you need to know, organized for easy reference.

1. General Windows Short Keys

Short Key	Function
CTRL + A	Select All
CTRL + C	Copy
CTRL + X	Cut
CTRL + V	Paste
CTRL + Z	Undo
CTRL + B	Bold
CTRL + U	Underline
CTRL + I	Italic
F1	Help
F2	Rename selected object
F5	Refresh current window
ALT + TAB	Cycles between open applications
ALT + F4	Quit program, close current window
CTRL + ESC	Opens Start menu
CTRL + ALT + DEL	Opens task manager, reboots the computer
SHIFT + DELETE	Full wipe delete (bypasses Recycle Bin)
WINKEY + D	Bring desktop to the top of other windows
WINKEY + E	Open Microsoft Explorer
WINKEY + L	Lock the computer (Windows XP & later)

2. Microsoft Word Short Keys

Short Key	Function
CTRL + A	Select all contents of the page
CTRL + B	Bold highlighted selection
CTRL + C	Copy selected text
CTRL + X	Cut selected text
CTRL + N	Open new/blank document
CTRL + O	Open options
CTRL + P	Open the print window
CTRL + F	Open find box
CTRL + I	Italicize highlighted selection
CTRL + U	Underline highlighted selection
CTRL + V	Paste
CTRL + Y	Redo the last action performed
CTRL + Z	Undo last action
CTRL + G/H	Find and replace options
CTRL + J	Justify paragraph alignment
CTRL + L	Align selected text or line to the left

3. Microsoft Outlook Short Keys

Short Key	Function
ALT + S	Send the email
CTRL + C	Copy selected text
CTRL + X	Cut selected text
CTRL + P	Open print dialog box
CTRL + K	Complete name/email typed in address bar
CTRL + B	Bold highlighted selection
CTRL + I	Italicize highlighted selection
CTRL + U	Underline highlighted selection
CTRL + R	Reply to an email
CTRL + F	Forward an email
CTRL + N	Create a new email
CTRL + SHIFT CTRL + SHIFT + O	Open the outbox
CTRL + SHIFT + I	Open the inbox

4. Document Cursor Control Short Keys

Short Key	Function
HOME	to beginning of line or far left of field or screen
END	to end of line, or far right of field or screen
CTRL + HOME	to the top
CTRL + END	to the bottom
PAGE UP	moves document or dialog box up one page
PAGE DOWN	moves document or dialog down one page
ARROW KEYS	move focus in documents, dialogs, etc.
CTRL + >	next word
CTRL + SHIFT + >	selects word

Tips for Mastering Short Keys

• Start Small: Focus on learning a few essential short keys at a time.
• Practice Regularly: Incorporate short keys into your daily tasks.
• Create Cheat Sheets: Keep a list of your most frequently used short keys handy.
• Use Sticky Notes: Place reminders on your monitor.
• Explore Application Menus: Many applications display short keys next to menu options.

Conclusion

By mastering these keys, you’ll significantly enhance your productivity and efficiency. Make it a habit to use them, and you’ll soon wonder how you ever worked without them.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Start today, and unlock your potential!