Computer keyboard shortcuts are one of the simplest ways to work faster, reduce repetitive clicking, and streamline everyday computer tasks. Whether you’re writing documents, managing files, browsing the web, or navigating Windows, mastering these shortcuts can save hours over the course of a year. This guide brings together the most important and universally useful keyboard shortcuts for Windows users, along with special character codes, navigation controls, and a quick glossary for beginners.
General Keyboard Shortcuts
- 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
Function Keys
- F1 — Help
- F2 — Rename selected item
- F3 — Search for files
- F4 — Open address bar list (Explorer)
- F5 — Refresh
- F6 — Move focus between panes
- F10 — Activate menu bar
ALT Key Shortcuts
- ALT + TAB — Switch between open apps
- ALT + F4 — Close current window
- ALT + F6 — Switch between windows of the same program
- ALT + ENTER — Open properties
- ALT + SPACE — Window system menu
- ALT + ↓ — Open dropdown lists
- ALT + (underlined letter) — Open corresponding menu
CTRL + ALT + Other Useful Shortcuts
- CTRL + ESC — Open Start menu
- CTRL + ALT + DEL — Security options
- CTRL + TAB — Move through tabs
- CTRL + SHIFT + DRAG — Create shortcut
- CTRL + DRAG — Copy file
SHIFT Key Shortcuts
- SHIFT (hold) + insert CD/DVD — Bypass AutoPlay
- SHIFT + DRAG — Move file
- SHIFT + F10 — Context menu (right‑click)
- SHIFT + DELETE — Permanent delete
Other Useful Keys
- BACKSPACE — Go to parent folder
- ESC — Cancel current action
Document Cursor Controls
- HOME — Beginning of line
- END — End of line
- CTRL + HOME — Top of document
- CTRL + END — Bottom of document
- PAGE UP — Scroll up one page
- PAGE DOWN — Scroll down one page
- Arrow Keys — Move cursor/focus
- CTRL + → — Jump to next word
- CTRL + SHIFT + → — Select next word
Windows Explorer Tree Controls
- Numeric Keypad * — Expand all under selection
- Numeric Keypad + — Expand selection
- Numeric Keypad – — Collapse selection
- → (Right Arrow) — Expand or go to first child
- ← (Left Arrow) — Collapse or go to parent
Special Characters (ALT Codes)
- ‘ — ALT 0145
- ’ — ALT 0146
- “ — ALT 0147
- ” — ALT 0148
- – — ALT 0150 (En dash)
- — — ALT 0151 (Em dash)
- … — ALT 0133 (Ellipsis)
- • — ALT 0149 (Bullet)
- ® — ALT 0174
- © — ALT 0169
- ™ — ALT 0153
- ° — ALT 0176
- ¢ — ALT 0162
- ¼ — ALT 0188
- ½ — ALT 0189
- ¾ — ALT 0190
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important shortcuts everyone should know?
CTRL+C, CTRL+V, CTRL+Z, ALT+TAB, and CTRL+SHIFT+ESC (Task Manager) are the biggest time‑savers for everyday use.
Do these shortcuts work on all versions of Windows?
Yes. These shortcuts work on all modern Windows versions including Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Why use keyboard shortcuts instead of a mouse?
Shortcuts reduce repetitive strain, speed up navigation, and improve workflow efficiency.
Do these shortcuts work on Mac?
No. macOS uses different modifier keys such as Command (⌘). A separate Mac version would be required.
Glossary
- Modifier Key — A key like CTRL, ALT, or SHIFT that changes the function of another key.
- Context Menu — The right‑click menu that shows options for the selected item.
- Focus — The active window, field, or element currently receiving input.
- ALT Code — A numeric code typed while holding ALT to produce special characters.
Keyboard shortcuts are one of the easiest ways to boost productivity and reduce friction in your daily computer use. Bookmark this guide or print it out for quick reference, and consider learning a few new shortcuts each week to build long‑term speed and efficiency.
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