The Windows 10 keyboard shortcuts you need to know

On Mar 1, 2020

If you’re familiar with Microsoft, you know it is constantly releasing updates to create a better overall experience — specifically Windows 10. Similar to the car industry, with each major update, we’re introduced to upgraded features and options that make the experience easier.

Unfortunately, not all of these updates are perfect. Tap or click here to see the latest update security patch. But one thing users can always count on are the established programs that allow us to quickly access the content we need.

It turns out that the Windows key, which can be found on virtually any Microsoft device, is more powerful than you may think. Well, it is if you know how to use it. Here are the most useful Windows key keyboard shortcuts from Windows 10.

What are the keyboard shortcuts?

Most people believe the mouse is the easiest way to navigate their computers, but they’d be wrong.

Keyboard shortcuts are significantly faster. Want to see what these amazing key sequences can do?

Check out the shortcuts below and you may find a few that will make you faster and more productive:

Windows logo key = Open and close start menu
Windows logo key + A = Open Notifications
Windows key + Pause = Display System
Windows logo key + C = Open Cortana in listening mode
Windows key + D = Hide or display desktop
Windows key + M = Minimize all windows
Windows key + E = Open File Explorer
Windows key + F = Begin feedback dialogue
Windows key + Shift + M = Restore minimized windows to desktop
Ctrl + Windows key + F = Search for other computers on the same network
Windows key + L = Lock computer or switch users
Windows key + R = Open run dialogue box
Windows key + T = Cycle through Taskbar programs
Windows key + number = Start program pinned to the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Shift + Windows key + number = Start a new instance of the program pinned to the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Ctrl + Windows key + number = Switch to the last active window of the program pinned to the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Alt + Windows key + number = Open the jump list for the program pinned to the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows key + V = Open the clipboard
Windows key + tab = Cycle through programs on the taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D
Ctrl + Windows key + tab = Use arrow keys to cycle through programs on the Taskbar by using Aero Flip 3-D
Ctrl + Windows + B = Switch to program that displays a message in the notification area
Windows key + Up Arrow = Maximize window
Windows key + Down Arrow = Minimize the desktop window
Windows key + Right Arrow = Maximize window on right side of the screen
Windows key + Left Arrow = Maximize window on the left side of the screen
Windows key + Home = Minimize all except the active window
Windows key + Shift + Up Arrow = Stretch the window from the top and bottom of the screen
Windows key + Shift + Left Arrow or Right Arrow = Move an open window or app from one monitor to another
Windows key + P = Select a presentation display mode
Windows key + G = Open the Game bar
Windows key + U = Open Ease of Access Center
Windows key + X = Open the Quick Link menu
Windows key + Ctrl + M = Open the Magnifier app