The most common input devices for a computer are the keyboard and mouse. The mouse is primarily used for navigation while the keyboard is used for inputting data. However, did you know that the keyboard could also be used for navigation?
All programs and versions of MS Windows can be controlled and navigated by the use of shortcut keys. These keys are a combination of keystrokes that perform a specific function such as copying text or opening a file. Shortcut keys can save time when used for performing repetitive tasks such as copying and pasting text within a document.
In addition, knowing how shortcut keys can be used for navigating MS Windows is necessary if the mouse on a system is not working properly. By understanding how to navigate without the use of a mouse will allow basic tasks to be performed such as properly shutting down the computer or checking email.
The table below lists the basic shortcut keys available. This is only a partial listing as almost any task has an equivalent shortcut. In addition, there are other shortcut keys available for different keyboards if the proper software is installed.
General Windows Shortcut Keys | |
F1 | Help |
CTRL + ESC | Open Start Menu |
ALT + TAB | Switch Between Open Programs |
ALT + F4 | Exit a Program |
SHIFT + DELETE | Delete an Item Permanently (item not moved to Recycle Bin) |
SHIFT + F10 | Opens Shortcut Menu for Item (same as right-clicking an object) |
ALT + DOWN ARROW | Opens List Box |
ALT + SPACE | Display’s Open Window System Menu |
ALT + underline letter in menu | Opens Drop Down Menu |
F10 | Activates Menu Bar |
Windows Explorer and Folder Shortcut Keys | |
F2 | Rename a File |
F3 | Search for Files |
CTRL + X | Cut |
CTRL + C | Copy |
CTRL + V | Paste |
ALT + ENTER | Opens Properties for Object |
Press CTRL and Drag File to Folder | Copies File |
Press CTRL + SHIFT and Drag File to Folder or Desktop | Creates a Shortcut |
F5 | Refresh View (current window) |
F6 | Move Between Different Areas in Windows Explorer |
CTRL + Z | Undo the Last Command (works within programs) |
CTRL + A | Selects all Items in Current Window |
Shortcuts for Keyboards with Windows Key | |
Windows Key | Opens Start Menu |
Windows Key + R | Opens Run Dialog Box |
Windows Key + M | Minimize All Open Windows |
Shift + Windows Key + M | Maximize Open Windows |
Windows Key + F1 | Help for Operating System |
Windows Key + E | Opens Windows Explorer |
Windows Key + F | Opens Search Dialog |
Windows Key + Break | Opens System Properties |
Keyboard Shortcuts for Navigating a Dialog Box | |
TAB | Moves to the next control option in dialog |
SHIFT + TAB | Moves to previous control option in dialog |
SPACEBAR | Activates Current Button Toggles a Check Box Selects an Option |
ENTER | Activates Highlighted Button |
ESC | Cancel |
ALT + underlined letter | Moves to Item |
Application Shortcuts | |
NOTE: Additional shortcut keys for applications are listed in the dropdown menus of the application. They are usually listed next to the right of the command and either start with CTRL or F for a function key. | |
CTRL + P | |
CTRL + S | Save Open File |
CTRL + N | Create New File |
CTRL + O | Open and Existing File |
CTRL + X | Cut |
CTRL + C | Copy |
CTRL + V | Paste |
CTRL + Z | Undo the Last Command |
CTRL + A | Selects all Items in Current Window |
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