Keyboard shortcuts can be a quick and efficient way to do simple tasks on a Microsoft Windows 10 PC or laptop. There are many different shortcuts available and each can perform a different task, allowing users to work as efficiently as possible. Some shortcuts are more complex than others, but each will likely make using a laptop or PC a little bit easier.
Keyboard shortcuts were created as an alternative option to dragging a mouse and selecting a task or tool, making it a lot quicker to complete simple tasks. Most shortcuts will only save users a few seconds, but those seconds tend to add up to greater time-savings over time. Shortcuts can be used on many different programs, including Adobe services to help creators access tools quicker. While shortcuts might be beneficial when using creative programs, Windows has many different shortcuts to choose from, helping to make tasks as simply as surfing the web faster and easier.
Shortcuts can do things as simple as minimizing or maximizing windows or more complex tasks, like locking a computer. The hardest part about shortcuts is memorizing the combination, and especially as there are so many to begin with. Some of the most widely used shortcuts are for copying, cutting, and pasting content from one app to another. To copy press ctrl + C, to cut press ctrl + X, and to paste click ctrl + V.
Other Useful Keyboard Shortcuts
To quickly shrink or maximize a window press the Windows logo key + the down arrow to shrink, or the up arrow to maximize. If a user wants to quickly access multitasking and move a tab to the left or right of the screen, press the Windows logo key and the right or left arrow, depending on which side the user wants to put the tab. To quickly lock a computer, press the Windows key + L and to quickly hide the desktop press the Windows key + D. If a user wants to go to Task View (to see all they're open tabs and even the history of their previously opened tabs), press the Windows key + the Tab key. To take a screenshot or to quickly access the Snip and Sketch tool press the Windows key + the Shift Key + S.
It is worth noting that Cortana can also be accessed through a shortcut, although the option is disabled by default. Therefore, users will first need to enable the option through the 'Cortana' section of the Settings. Once enabled, Cortana can be activated in listening mode by pressing the Windows key + C. These are only a few of the many Shortcuts available, so it is worth taking the time to get to know as many as possible, as they are all designed to speed up using a Windows 10 laptop or PC.
Source: Microsoft