Have you ever wished you could type faster without having to look at your keyboard? Or maybe you just want to make your work process more efficient? If so, then this blog post is for you. We’ll cover all the keyboard shortcuts that you need to know to become a real keyboard ninja in both Windows and Mac operating systems. So read on and become a keyboard master!
Keyboard shortcuts are a great way to save time, increase productivity, and get more done in less time. From basic shortcuts such as copy and paste to more advanced ones that allow you to manage your files, understanding how to use them is essential for any computer user. Whether you’re a Mac or Windows user, this comprehensive guide has all the information you need to become a keyboard ninja and make sure your workflows are running as smooth as possible.
A lot of the shortcuts in this article are very similar on both Mac OS X or Windows 10/11. The main difference is usually that Mac tends to use the ‘Command’ key and Windows mostly uses the ‘CTRL’ key.
General every day Mac and Windows keyboard shortcuts
| Action | Mac shortcut | Windows shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Copy text or item | Command + C | Ctrl + C |
| Cut text or item | Command + X | Ctrl + X |
| Paste text or item | Command + V | Ctrl + V |
| Undo text / step back | Command + Z | Ctrl + Z |
| Redo / step forward | Command + Shift + Z | Ctrl + Y |
| Find | Command + F | Ctrl + F |
| Find and replace | Command + H | Ctrl + H |
| Screenshot (full screen) | Command + Shift + 3 | PrnScn |
| Screenshot (current application) | Command + Shift + 3 | Alt + PrnScn |
| Screenshot (part of screen) | Command + Shift + 4 | Windows + Shift + S |
| Select all | Command + A | Ctrl + A |
| Bold | Command + B | Ctrl + B |
| Italic | Command + I | Ctrl + I |
| Command + P | Ctrl + P | |
| Underline | Command + U | Ctrl + U |
| Superscript | Command + Control + + | Ctrl + Shift + = |
| Subscript | Command + Control + – | Ctrl + = |
| Search applications / files | Command + Space | Windows, type what you want to find |
Desktop actions via keyboard shortcuts
| Action | Mac shortcut | Windows shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Open action / control centre | Windows + A | |
| Show / hide desktop | FN + F11 | Windows + D |
| Open explorer / finder | Command + Option + Space | Windows + E |
| Open settings / preferences | Command + , | Windows + I |
| Lock computer | Command + Control + Q | Windows + L |
| Minimise all apps / Exposé | Command + F3 | Windows + M |
| Open clipboard history | Windows + V | |
| Move to start of line | Home | Command + Left |
| Move to end of line | End | Command + Right |
Browser / application keyboard shortcuts
| Action | Mac shortcut | Windows shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| New tab | Command + T | Ctrl + T |
| Switch tab | Control + Tab | Ctrl + Tab |
| Close tab | Command + W | Ctrl + W |
| Switch application | Command + Tab | ALT + TAB |
| Close application | Command + Q | ALT + F4 |
| Full screen (toggle) | Command + Control + F | F11 |
| Address bar | Command + L | Alt + D |
| Add bookmark | Command + D | Ctrl + D |
In addition to the aforementioned shortcuts, there are many other keyboard shortcuts available, depending on the application you’re using. Some applications, such as text editors and web browsers, have their own unique shortcuts that can be customized to suit your needs.
In conclusion, keyboard shortcuts are a powerful tool that can help you work faster and more efficiently on your computer. Whether you’re a Mac or Windows user, there are many shortcuts available that can save you time and effort when performing common tasks. By learning and using these shortcuts, you’ll be able to work more efficiently and get more done in less time.