Using the Windows key to save time and mouse clicks
byMark Townsend
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23 Aug, 2019
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Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
There are many keyboard shortcuts that you can use to save time and mouse clicks. Some shortcuts are specific to programs like Microsoft Word and Excel and some are specific to Windows itself. With Windows 7 coming to the end of its life on January 14 2020 many people are now switching to Windows 10 and there are also another batch of pupils about to return to school with new Computers. I therefore thought it would be a timely opportunity to run through the various shortcuts that can be achieved using the Windows key. I will focus on other keys like Control and Alt in future articles but as these keys are well known by Microsoft Office users and the Windows key that is highlighted in red above remains a mystery to many we will start here.
The first and most obvious command is to just hit the button on its own and you will see that it brings up the start menu in the same way that it would if you clicked the start button with your mouse. Hitting it again makes it disappear.
Windows and A - This opens the Notification Window. Repeating the Command closes it again.
Windows and D - This shortcut immediately returns you to the Desktop regardless of how many Windows you currently have open. This can save a significant amount of time when compared to minimising or closing everything you currently have open. Hitting Windows D for a second time returns you to where you were.
Windows and E - Opens File Explorer. This may not appear to save much time compared to clicking the Folder icon on the Taskbar however this command actually opens a new instance of Explorer and hitting it several times opens several instances. Repeatedly clicking the taskbar shortcut doesn't achieve this; you have to right click and then click File Explorer on the sub menu that appears to achieve the same result. Multiple instances of File Explorer can be useful in split screen mode for moving things around or just to look at two views at the same time.
Windows and F- Opens the Microsoft Feedback Hub; not massively useful unless you are in a rush to report something to Microsoft.
Windows and I - This command opens the Windows Settings Folder.
Windows and L - You can immediately lock your Computer using this command. You will need to re-enter your password if you have one to log back on.
Windows and M - This command will minimise all your Windows and return you to your Desktop in a similar way to Windows D. However, unlike Windows D repeating the command does not maximise them again. This can still be achieved though with Shift Windows and M.
Windows and R - This opens the Run Command window which is handy if you are familiar with other commands that you would like to run. An example would be Outlook /safe to open Outlook in safe mode for diagnostic purposes.
Windows and S - Opens the Cortana Search Window to allow you to carry out a search either locally or Online.
Windows and U - This command opens up the Display Settings page to allow you to make modifications to your Display settings.
Windows and X - Displays a sub menu that is the same as clicking the right mouse button on the start button. This menu provides shortcuts to a number of other areas including Apps and Features and is regularly used by System Administrators.
Windows and Up Arrow or Windows and Down Arrow - This maximises or minimises the Window you are currently viewing.
Windows and Tab - Displays a Timeline where you can look through what you've done earlier today and on previous days. This command can vary depending on what version of Windows 10 you are running.
Windows and Break - This command opens your System Properties.
Windows and F1 - Opens Online Help Window.
If you are new to Windows 10 or you would like some training in a specific area or on a specific subject then Churchdown Computers offer this service. We have special pricing available for the remainder of 2019 where you can book training for as little as £17.50 per hour when you book a half day session. If you would like to take advantage of this offer then please give us a call to see how we can help. You can call Mark on 07557 483438, e-mail mark@churchdowncomputers.co.uk or fill out the form at the bottom of theContact page.
