25 Essential Windows 10 & 11 Keyboard Shortcuts Explained Simply
Learn how to use Windows 10 and Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts with simple, practical explanations to work faster and more efficiently.
EN - TUTORIAL
Québec Test
8/14/20253 min read
Whether you’re working, studying, or just browsing the web, mastering keyboard shortcuts on Windows 10 and Windows 11 can completely transform the way you use your computer. Instead of clicking through menus or searching for settings, the right key combinations can help you move faster, stay organized, and save time every single day.
In this guide, we’ll go beyond just listing shortcuts — we’ll explain what each one does, when to use it, and why it’s worth learning. By the end, you’ll have a toolbox of quick actions that make you feel like a Windows pro.
1. Must-Know General Shortcuts
Ctrl + C / Ctrl + V / Ctrl + X
What it does: Copy, paste, or cut text, files, or folders.
Why it’s useful: Saves time by avoiding right-click menus.
Tip: Ctrl + X moves the item, Ctrl + C leaves the original in place.
Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Y
What it does: Undo (Z) the last action or redo (Y) it.
Why it’s useful: Quickly fixes mistakes like accidental text deletion.
Alt + Tab
What it does: Switches between open applications.
Why it’s useful: Makes multitasking faster without touching the mouse.
Tip: Hold Alt and tap Tab repeatedly to move through the list.
Alt + F4
What it does: Closes the current app or window.
Why it’s useful: Quicker than clicking the X in the corner.
Win + D
What it does: Shows or hides the desktop.
Why it’s useful: Instantly clears your view to access desktop icons or files.
Win + L
What it does: Locks your PC session.
Why it’s useful: Protects your data when stepping away from your computer.
2. Navigation, Window Management & Screenshots
Win + E
What it does: Opens File Explorer.
Why it’s useful: Instantly browse your files without using the Start Menu.
Win + ↑ / ↓ / ← / →
What it does: Maximizes, restores/minimizes, or snaps the window to the left/right.
Why it’s useful: Great for working with multiple windows side by side.
Win + Tab
What it does: Opens Task View showing all open windows and virtual desktops.
Why it’s useful: Helps organize and switch between workspaces.
Win + PrtScn
What it does: Captures the entire screen and saves it to the Pictures/Screenshots folder.
Why it’s useful: Quick way to save what’s on screen without extra tools.
3. Windows 10-Specific Shortcuts
Win + A
What it does: Opens the Action Center (notifications and quick settings).
Why it’s useful: Instant access to Wi-Fi, brightness, airplane mode, and more.
Win + V
What it does: Opens the clipboard history (must be enabled in Settings).
Why it’s useful: Lets you retrieve and paste something you copied earlier.
Win + I
What it does: Opens Windows Settings.
Why it’s useful: Faster than navigating through the Start Menu.
Win + H
What it does: Activates Voice Typing.
Why it’s useful: Lets you dictate text instead of typing it manually.
4. Windows 11-Specific Shortcuts
Win + H
Same as Windows 10 but with an improved interface.
Win + X
What it does: Opens the Power User menu (Settings, Device Manager, etc.).
Why it’s useful: Quick access to system tools.
Win + X + [Letter]
What it does: Directly launches a Power User menu option (e.g., Win+X then C for Command Prompt, U for shutdown/restart options).
Why it’s useful: Saves even more time than navigating menus.
Win + V
Same as on Windows 10, but available by default on most recent builds.
Alt + Space
What it does: Opens Microsoft Copilot (new interface).
Why it’s useful: Quickly launches Microsoft’s AI assistant.
5. Bonus Tool for Advanced Users
Microsoft PowerToys
What it does: A free Microsoft toolset with features like window management, quick search, and shortcut guides.
Why it’s useful: Adds productivity tools missing from standard Windows.
Conclusion
By understanding not just the key combos but when to use them, you can save minutes every day and make your workflow far smoother.
Start by learning 5–6 shortcuts you’ll use daily, then add a new one each week to become a true Windows power user.
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