At first glance, learning keyboard shortcuts might not seem worth it, since there are so many, and it takes time to get used to them.
But what if I told you that there are just a few important ones that everyone should know?
The time and manual effort you'll save over the rest of your life is simply invaluable. In this guide, you will learn about the 12 most important keyboard shortcuts that will help you become more productive and reduce your reliance on your mouse.
Shortcut #1: Windows + Arrow (Side-by-Side Windows)
This PC shortcut key is especially useful when you're working on a laptop with a single screen or when you'd like to better utilize a second screen. Often, you need to work on different documents simultaneously, which requires switching between windows to review or edit information. Instead of constantly going back and forth between documents, you can display them side by side by pressing Windows + Left Arrow or Right Arrow. The window you're currently working in will move to one side, allowing you to choose another window to display on the other side. This is perfect for summarizing key points from a document or browsing the internet while working on another project.
Shortcut #2: Alt + Tab (Switch Between Programs)
Need to switch between multiple windows or programs quickly? The Alt + Tab combo is your best friend. By holding down Alt and pressing Tab, you'll bring up all your open programs. Use the Tab or arrow keys to select the program you want, then release both keys to switch to that window. This is a smart, time-saving hotkey keyboard feature, ideal for quickly jumping between two active windows—like translating text in one while writing in another.
Shortcut #3: Windows + Shift + S (Screenshots Made Easy)
The Windows 11 keyboard has a built-in screenshot tool called Snip & Sketch, which you can access with Windows + Shift + S. Once activated, your screen will dim, and you'll be presented with options to snip a rectangular section, a freeform area, a specific window, or the entire screen. This tool saves your snips to the clipboard, and you can paste or edit them immediately. To take multiple snips or copy text in between, use the Windows + V combination to access your clipboard history.
Shortcut #4: Windows + G (Record Your Screen)
Another incredible PC shortcut key is Windows + G, which opens the Xbox Game Bar, allowing you to record your screen. Even if you're not a gamer, this tool is useful for creating screencasts or recording presentations. Once the game bar is open, simply hit the record button, and the program you’re using will be captured. This is especially helpful for walkthroughs or recording how-to videos.
Shortcut #5: Windows + E (Open File Explorer)
If you frequently need to search for documents, the Windows + E combination will open the File Explorer instantly, making it easy to access your files without needing to touch the mouse. Additionally, if the File Explorer is pinned to your taskbar, pressing Windows + 1 will open it directly. Similarly, other pinned programs can be opened using Windows + 2, 3, 4, etc., making this a powerful hotkey keyboard tool.
Shortcut #6: Windows + Ctrl + D (Virtual Desktops)
When you're working with many open programs but limited screen space, creating additional virtual desktops with Windows + Ctrl + D can be a lifesaver. You can switch between virtual desktops using Windows + Ctrl + Left Arrow or Right Arrow to keep your workspace organized.
Shortcut #7: Windows + D / Windows + M (Show Desktop)
If you need to minimize all your windows quickly, Windows + M will minimize everything, allowing you to access your desktop. Alternatively, Windows + D also brings up your desktop, but pressing it again will return you to your previous layout, making it more flexible for multitasking.
Shortcut #8: Windows + Tab (Task View)
The Windows 11 keyboard offers a task view shortcut with Windows + Tab. This lets you see all your open programs and documents, plus a timeline of previously opened windows. It’s an easy way to get an overview of what you’re working on without getting lost in too many open windows.
Shortcut #9: Windows + Period (Emoji and Special Characters)
A lesser-known but super useful shortcut is Windows + Period (full stop), which opens up the emoji and special character pop-up. This keyboard shortcut is especially handy when you need to insert special characters, emojis, or even GIFs into your document or message.
Shortcut #10: Windows + L (Lock Your PC)
One of the most important PC shortcut keys is Windows + L, which locks your computer. This is crucial for protecting your work and personal data when stepping away from your desk, especially in an office or shared workspace.
These keyboard shortcuts are just a glimpse of the many ways you can become more efficient with your computer. Mastering these hotkey keyboard combinations on your Windows 11 keyboard will help you save time and enhance productivity, whether you’re working on documents, navigating between apps, or managing multiple tasks.
