Microsoft Windows in one shape or form has been around for some time (since 1985) with short-cuts being introduced with Windows version 2.0 in October 1987.
So what is a short-cut?
Well, in short, it’s a set of key strokes that invoke a common task.
Let me give you an example:
As you’re sat at your keyboard now, Hold down your Ctrl Key with one finger, then press the Esc key with another (Ctrl + Esc). See how the Windows Start Menu pops up?
Let’s try another.
Hold down the Windows Key and then press ‘R’ (Win + R). See how the Run menu pops up?
Ever copied and pasted text? Of course you have!
Ever tried using ‘Ctrl + C’ to copy and ‘Ctrl + V’ to paste? Maybe not.
Here’s a few useful shortcuts, that if you use Microsoft Windows, you might just find useful…
| Key Combination | Task |
| Win + M | Minimise all Windows and show the Desktop |
| Win + E | Show Windows Explorer |
| Alt + Enter | Show the properties for a file in Windows Explorer |
| Ctrl + C | Copy the selected text to the Windows Clipboard |
| Ctrl + X | Cut the selected text to the Windows Clipboard |
| Ctrl + V | Paste the contents of the Windows Clipboard |
| Ctrl + Shift + Esc | Show the Windows Task Manager |
| Alt + Tab | Switch between the active programs currently running in Windows |
| F1 | Show Help for the current screen you’re on |
| F2 | Rename a file that is currently highlighted |
| F3 | Search for a File in Windows |
| F4 | Invoke a drop down list/pull down menu |
| F5 | Refresh the current active Window |
| F12 | Invoke the “Save As” feature for most common Microsoft Products |
| Shift + F10 | Invoke a Right Click context menu for any object that is highlighted |