The ultimate guide to keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac users

In today’s fast-paced digital world, who doesn’t want to work quicker and look like a total pro doing it? Nifty keyboard shortcuts are the answer!

Mastering keyboard shortcuts can help you save time AND feel like a super-computer-wiz! Whether you’re a Windows or Mac user, arming yourself with some shortcut sorcery will save you time, reduce repetitive tasks, and make navigating your computer a breeze. This ultimate guide covers essential keyboard shortcuts for both operating systems, ensuring you work smarter, not harder!

• Click here to skip to Windows keyboard shortcuts 
• Click here to skip to Mac keyboard shortcuts

First up, what are keyboard shortcuts?

Keyboard shortcuts are combinations of keys that do specific functions, instead of using your mouse or cursor. They’re designed to streamline tasks like copying and pasting, switching between applications, or even taking screenshots.

What are the benefits?

1. Increased efficiency: Tasks that typically require multiple clicks can be completed with just a few keystrokes.
2. Reduced strain: Less reliance on a mouse minimises wrist and hand strain.
3. Professionalism (AKA looking like a total Pro): Quickly navigating your computer demonstrates tech-savviness, especially in professional settings.
4. Consistency: Many keyboard shortcuts are universal across software, meaning you can apply what you learn in one program to others.

Essential keyboard shortcuts for Windows

If you’re using a Windows PC, these keyboard shortcuts will make your life easier:

General Windows shortcuts

• Ctrl + C: Copy selected text or files.
• Ctrl + X: Cut selected text or files.
• Ctrl + V: Paste the copied or cut content.
• Ctrl + Z: Undo your last action.
• Ctrl + Y: Redo an undone action.
• Alt + Tab: Switch between open applications.
• Ctrl + S: Save your work in most programs.
• Ctrl + P: Open the print dialog box.

File management shortcuts

• Ctrl + N: Open a new window in File Explorer.
• Alt + Enter: View properties of a selected file or folder.
• F2: Rename a selected file or folder.
• Ctrl + Shift + N: Create a new folder.

Browser shortcuts

• Ctrl + T: Open a new browser tab.
• Ctrl + W: Close the current tab.
• Ctrl + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed tab.
• Ctrl + D: Bookmark the current page.

Essential keyboard shortcuts for Mac 

Mac users also have a wide range of keyboard shortcuts at their disposal. Here are the most useful ones:

General Mac shortcuts

• Command (⌘) + C: Copy selected text or files.
• Command + X: Cut selected text or files.
• Command + V: Paste the copied or cut content.
• Command + Z: Undo your last action.
• Command + Shift + Z: Redo an undone action.
• Command + Tab: Switch between open applications.
• Command + S: Save your work in most programs.
• Command + P: Open the print dialog box.

File management shortcuts

• Command + N: Open a new Finder window.
• Command + I: Get information about a selected file or folder.
• Command + Option + Esc: Force quit an application.
• Command + Shift + N: Create a new folder.

Browser shortcuts

• Command + T: Open a new browser tab.
• Command + W: Close the current tab.
• Command + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed tab.
• Command + D: Bookmark the current page.

How to remember keyboard shortcuts… There’s so many!

Learning keyboard shortcuts can feel overwhelming at first, but these tips will help:

1. Start small: Focus on a few basic shortcuts and gradually add more.
2. Use visual aids: Print out a list of common keyboard shortcuts and keep it near your workstation at the start.
3. Practice regularly: Repetition is key to committing shortcuts to memory.
4. Customise shortcuts: Many programs allow you to create custom keyboard shortcuts tailored to your workflow.

Advanced keyboard shortcuts for power users (and total Pros)

For those looking to take their skills to the next level, here are some advanced keyboard shortcuts:

Windows

• Windows Key + D: Show or hide the desktop.
• Windows Key + L: Lock your computer.
• Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open the Task Manager directly.
• Windows Key + Arrow Keys: Snap windows to different parts of the screen.
• Ctrl + Shift + P: Pastes text you’ve copied but without the formatting (paste as plain text)

Mac

• Command + Space: Open Spotlight Search.
• Command + Option + H: Hide all other windows except the active one.
• Control + Command + Q: Lock your Mac instantly.
• Command + Shift + 4: Take a screenshot of a selected area.

And that’s it, folks!

Mastering keyboard shortcuts is one of the simplest ways to boost your productivity and make your computer experience more enjoyable. Whether you’re a Windows or Mac user, these shortcuts can help you save time and work more efficiently. Start incorporating these into your daily routine and see the difference they make!

P.S. If you found this guide helpful, please go ahead and share it with your team or colleagues. For more tips and tricks, check out our other blogs like 10 computer tips and tricks to boost productivity at work. Happy shortcutting!

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