Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are key combinations that allow you to execute commands or actions without using a mouse. They save time, speed up work, and help minimize strain on your hands. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what keyboard shortcuts are, their types, essential combinations, and tips for effective usage.

What Are Keyboard Shortcuts and Why Do You Need Them

Keyboard shortcuts (or hotkeys) are combinations of keyboard buttons that perform specific actions in programs or operating systems. They allow you to:

avoid unnecessary mouse movements;
accelerate frequently repeated operations;
increase productivity and comfort while working;
work in limited space conditions (for example, on a laptop without a mouse).

Benefits of Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Time savings. Using key combinations, you can execute commands in fractions of a second, instead of searching for the right button in menus.

Increased productivity. Keyboard shortcuts help you focus on tasks without getting distracted by navigation.

Less strain on vision and wrists. Fewer mouse movements and less eye switching between keyboard and screen.

Types of Keyboard Shortcuts

system shortcuts — built into operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux);
application shortcuts — work within specific applications (Word, Photoshop, browsers);
custom shortcuts — combinations assigned by users themselves;
function keys — F1–F12, which execute specific commands.

Essential Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows

Window management:

Alt + Tab — switch between windows.
Windows + D — minimize/restore all windows.
Windows + E — open File Explorer.
Windows + L — lock computer.

Copy and paste operations:

Ctrl + C — copy.
Ctrl + V — paste.
Ctrl + X — cut.
Ctrl + Z — undo action.

Working with windows and desktops:

Windows + ↑ — maximize window to full screen.
Windows + ↓ — minimize window.
Windows + Shift + ←/→ — move window to another monitor.

Essential Keyboard Shortcuts for macOS

Navigation:

Command + Tab — switch between applications.
Command + Space — open Spotlight search.
Command + H — hide active application window.

Editing:

Command + C — copy.
Command + V — paste.
Command + X — cut.
Command + Z — undo action.

System functions:

Command + Shift + 3 — take screenshot.
Command + Option + Esc — force quit application.

Keyboard Shortcuts in Popular Programs

Microsoft Word:

Ctrl + B — bold text.
Ctrl + I — italic text.
Ctrl + U — underline text.
Ctrl + S — save document.

Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge):

Ctrl + T — open new tab.
Ctrl + W — close tab.
Ctrl + Shift + T — restore closed tab.
Ctrl + Tab — switch between tabs.

Adobe Photoshop:

Ctrl + N — new document.
Ctrl + Shift + S — save as.
Ctrl + T — transform object.
B — brush tool.

How to Memorize Keyboard Shortcuts

Here are several tips that will help you remember essential keyboard shortcuts and use them automatically in your work:

Start with the most frequently used combinations.
Practice them daily until you automate the process.
Use flashcards or sticky notes on your desktop.
Don't try to learn everything at once — add 2–3 new combinations per week.

Creating Your Own Keyboard Shortcuts

Many programs allow you to assign custom combinations:

In Windows — through shortcut properties.
In macOS — in "Keyboard" settings → "Keyboard Shortcuts."
In some applications — in "Settings" or "Preferences" menu.

Example: Assign Ctrl + Alt + N to open your favorite text editor.

Common Mistakes When Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Accidental presses — can lead to unwanted actions (like closing windows).
Shortcut conflicts — the same combination in different programs may perform different actions.
Overuse — excessive use of complex combinations can cause hand discomfort.

Keyboard shortcuts are a powerful tool that makes computer work faster and more comfortable. Regular use of even a basic set of combinations will multiply your productivity. The key is to start small, gradually expanding your command "arsenal."