100+ Computer Keyboard Shortcuts Guide
Computer keyboard shortcuts are combinations of keys that provide quick and efficient ways to perform tasks on your computer without using the mouse. They save time, help streamline your workflow, and improve productivity. Below is a detailed guide on various types of computer shortcut keys, with each section explained in simple and easy-to-understand language.
Must read: Computer Fundamentals Tutorial

Basic Computer Shortcut Keys
Basic shortcut keys are essential for everyday tasks. These can be used on almost all software applications and operating systems.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
Ctrl + C | Copy selected item |
Ctrl + X | Cut selected item |
Ctrl + V | Paste copied/cut item |
Ctrl + Z | Undo last action |
Ctrl + Y | Redo last undone action |
Ctrl + A | Select all items |
Ctrl + S | Save current document/file |
Ctrl + P | Print current document |
Alt + F4 | Close current window/application |
Ctrl + F | Find text in the document |
Ctrl/Command Based Shortcut Keys
Ctrl-based shortcuts are especially useful for Windows users, while Command-based shortcuts serve Mac users similarly.
Shortcut Key (Windows) | Shortcut Key (Mac) | Function |
---|---|---|
Ctrl + N | Command + N | Open a new window/document |
Ctrl + T | Command + T | Open a new tab in a browser |
Ctrl + W | Command + W | Close the current tab/window |
Ctrl + Shift + T | Command + Shift + T | Reopen recently closed tab |
Ctrl + D | Command + D | Bookmark current page |
Alt-based Shortcut Keys
Alt-based shortcuts often involve navigating menus and accessing special functions.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
Alt + Tab | Switch between open applications |
Alt + Enter | Open properties for the selected item |
Alt + Space | Open the system menu of the current window |
Alt + Arrow Keys | Navigate through menus or items |
Windows (Win) Based Shortcut Keys
Win key shortcuts are specific to the Windows operating system and provide quick access to system functions.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
Win + D | Show or hide the desktop |
Win + E | Open File Explorer |
Win + L | Lock your computer |
Win + R | Open the Run dialog box |
Win + S | Open search |
Win + I | Open Settings |
Function Based Shortcut Keys
Function keys (F1-F12) perform various built-in functions depending on the software you are using.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
F1 | Open Help |
F2 | Rename selected item |
F3 | Search for a file or folder |
F5 | Refresh the active window or web page |
F10 | Activate the menu bar in the current program |
F11 | Enter or exit full-screen mode in browsers |
GMail Shortcut Keys
GMail offers keyboard shortcuts to navigate and manage your emails more efficiently.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
C | Compose a new email |
E | Archive selected conversation |
/ | Search mail |
F | Forward an email |
R | Reply to the email |
A | Reply to all |
MS Word Shortcut Keys
MS Word shortcut keys are designed to help you format and edit documents quickly.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
Ctrl + B | Bold highlighted selection |
Ctrl + I | Italicize highlighted selection |
Ctrl + U | Underline highlighted selection |
Ctrl + K | Insert hyperlink |
Ctrl + ] | Increase font size |
Ctrl + [ | Decrease font size |
MS Excel Shortcut Keys
In MS Excel, keyboard shortcuts are particularly useful for navigating and manipulating spreadsheets.
Shortcut Key | Function |
---|---|
Ctrl + Arrow Keys | Move to the edge of data regions |
Ctrl + Shift + L | Toggle autofilters |
Ctrl + T | Create a table |
F2 | Edit the active cell |
Shift + Space | Select entire row |
Ctrl + Space | Select entire column |
Conclusion
Mastering these keyboard shortcuts can significantly enhance your efficiency and productivity across various applications and operating systems. By incorporating these shortcuts into your daily computer usage, you’ll navigate tasks faster and more smoothly, enabling you to focus on what truly matters.