Windows-Key Shortcuts You Need

It seems the Windows OS has endless capabilities, many of which have an associated keyboard shortcut for our convenience. Of course, having these capabilities is one thing, but remembering them all is an entirely different story. We’ve compiled a list of the shortcuts associated with the letter keys, with a few extras as a bonus, so you can reference this article for future use.

Take note of any that you might have a particular use for and share with your coworkers!

Windows Shortcuts in alphabetical order

• WinKey + A launches the Action Center.
• WinKey + B highlights the notification area.
• WinKey + C launches Cortana in listening mode.
• WinKey + D toggles Show Desktop and the previous state.
• WinKey + E launches File Explorer in the Quick Access tab.
• WinKey + F launches the Microsoft Feedback hub.
• WinKey + G launches the Game Bar tools, for use during personal time.
• WinKey + H launches the Dictation toolbar.
• WinKey + I launches the Settings.
• WinKey + K launches the Connect pane to connect to wireless displays and devices.
• WinKey + L locks the device.
• WinKey + M minimizes all open windows.
• WinKey + O locks the device’s orientation on tablets and mobile devices.
• WinKey + P launches the Project pane.
• WinKey + Q opens Search.
• WinKey + R displays the run dialog box.
• WinKey + S launches Cortana in typing mode.
• WinKey + T cycles through the apps on the taskbar.
• WinKey + U launches the Ease of Access/Display Center to manage attached displays.
• WinKey + V pulls up the clipboard app to view things copied to it with Ctrl + C.
• WinKey + X pulls up the advanced Secret Start menu.

Moving Around Your Windows

Organizing your desktop can often help people be more productive. Did you know that Windows has a few shortcuts dedicated to arranging the windows on your display?

• WinKey + Left/Right Arrow takes the active window and adjusts it to fill the left or right side of the monitor it is displayed in.
• WinKey + Shift + Left/Right Arrow moves the active window to another display.
• WinKey + Up Arrow maximizes the active window.
• WinKey + Down Arrow minimizes the active window.

While Windows has many more shortcuts to explore, these seem to be the most likely to be used widely. However, we’re always posting similar tips here, and we will eventually cover all of Windows’ keyboard shortcuts. Check back often for more great technology tips and best practices.